Replacing Double Glazed Windows

Whether you want uPVC Sash windows or aluminium casements, there's a vast variety of options to match the style of your property and your energy efficiency needs. Modern double glazing provides numerous benefits like noise reduction, UV-ray protection and security of your property with multipoint locking mechanisms.

What can you do if your double glazing is showing signs of wear?

1. Excessive Condensation

In the winter, when windows and doors are closed, condensation may form inside the glass panes if the air temperature is warmer than the window's surface. This is a natural occurrence that can be prevented by opening windows, improving ventilation more generally, running a dehumidifier and keeping moisture levels low with extractor fans. However, if condensation forms regularly on the interior of your windows this is a sign that the double glazing has failed and it needs replacing as soon as possible.

Condensation on the outside of your windows is normal and indicates that the double glazing unit is working as it is supposed to. Condensation on the outside of your windows in the morning occurs due to the cold glass temperature dropping below the dew point of the air surrounding it, causing water vapour to be drawn up from the air into the cold glass, where it condenses. This is aggravated by the presence of plants within your home that produce excessive moisture and by high humidity.

If condensation forms inside your double glazing it is a far more serious issue. It is an indication that the seal between the two glass panes has been broken and allows warm air from your house to get in while insulating gas is evaporating. This could cause significant damage to your double glazing and if untreated, will have a significant impact on your energy bill.

Having replacement double glazing installed as soon as you notice this type of condensation can dramatically reduce the possibility that the issue gets worse, saving your money in the end. The Replacement Double Glazing Windows of your double-glazed windows can also be a great way to upgrade to A-rated energy-efficient windows, making your home more comfortable and reducing your costs for energy.

2. Signs of wear and tear

Double glazing offers a lot of advantages, including noise insulation and a reduction in energy bills. Like all other products double glazed windows have a life span. It is essential to recognize the signs when they are nearing the end of their usefulness.

Visible condensation is among the most obvious indicators. This is due to the difference in temperature between the two panes. If you notice it this could be a sign the window seals have failed.

If the window seal is not working then cold air could enter your home. This is not just a waste of electricity but also leads to damp and mold. Both of them are costly to fix. Additionally, both damp as well as mould are detrimental to health as they can create allergens and irritants which can affect your family's health.

Draughts are another sign of sealants that are beginning to wear. This allows external noise to enter your home which can be a huge distraction, especially when you live near the road that is busy or has noisy neighbours. This can affect your ability to work from home or how relaxing your home is.

If windows no longer open and close smoothly it is also an indication that they require to be replaced. This can be a safety issue if the windows aren't able to open when required in the event of an emergency fire, and should not be ignored. A professional window installer can assess the condition of the windows you have and offer suggestions on the best course.

3. Draughts

If you notice draughts coming out of your windows, it's likely that the seals in your double glazing have blown. Sealants are used to hold the panes of glass together and assist with insulation, but this can be damaged by changes in weather conditions or simply aging. This causes cold air to enter your home and warm air to escape, causing draughts and a reduction in energy efficiency.

Another reason why draughts might be happening is because the frame of your window is distorted and not sealing correctly. The moisture can also get caught within the window frame, causing the draughts to increase as time passes. This is a serious problem and you must replace your double-glazed windows as soon as possible.

A double-glazed window that is misty is an indication that the sealed unit has leaking or gas escapes between the panes. This is a serious problem and it will need replacing immediately to stop water from getting into your home, preventing heat from escaping and reducing the effectiveness of your insulation. If your windows are covered by warranty, you can ask the company to replace them.

Chips and cracks in your double-glazed windows aren't always a sign they need replacing however they can have a negative impact on their overall performance. They may also limit the amount of light that goes through, causing draughts. If your windows have large cracks or chips, they might not be able support the weight of replacement units and will require new frames for windows.

4. More Utility Bills

It's important to keep the cost of energy as low as you can. Energy bills that are high are not only costly however they also place unnecessary strain on the environment. We all want to decrease this. Leaky windows are the main cause of high energy bills. They not only let heat escape from your home and into the outside, but they also cause drafts that force you to use more energy to heat your house. Replacing double glazing with energy efficient windows can reduce your energy bills and will save you money year after year.

If you notice condensation on the double glazing window replacement-glazed panes of glass, it's a sign that your windows must be replaced. This is an indication of a faulty seal, which means air is leaking in and out of the home. Insulation is also not functioning properly.

If your double glazing is misting then it's time to replace them. This is a sign the seal is broken and water is trapped between the glass panes. Having your double glazing replaced will stop moisture from getting into your home, stop heat escaping and help to keep your house warm.

If you have your double-glazed windows replaced with a brand new energy efficient window, you can conserve heat, reduce your energy consumption and enhance the appearance of your home. This can also add value to your property, making it more attractive to prospective buyers if you decide to sell in the near future. With category B rated double glazing you can expect to save up to PS115 per year on heating costs, which will quickly cover the cost of your new windows.

5. Faulty Windows

If you have a double glazed window that has become foggy, misty or hazy, this is an early sign that the seal has failed. It's also a sign that the glass has lost its insulation value and could lead to draughts and condensation. In addition, the gap around the edges of your windows can allow water to enter and damage your wall or plaster. This can also be a serious fire risk.

It is crucial to get your double glazing fixed as soon as you can in the event that the glass has turned cloudy. This could be a safety concern. It could also result in more in energy bills due to the loss in insulation.

Misted windows are caused by moisture in the air between the two panes of your IGU (insulated glass unit). Gas within the glass, typically argon, or krypton, aids in insulation. If the seal fails, this gas leaks and causes your window to become foggy.

Failure of the seal in the early stages is a clear indicator of a problem with the product, therefore, make sure you check your warranty for coverage. In some cases manufacturers offer a prorated warranty scaled according to the age of your windows, and this might be an option worth considering.

Other indicators that your uPVC window requires to be replaced include: