Replacing Double Glazed Windows

No matter if you're looking for uPVC Sash windows or aluminium casements, there's a vast range of options available to match the style of your property and your energy efficiency needs. Modern double glazing comes with a myriad of benefits, including noise reduction, UV protection and property security thanks to multipoint locking mechanisms.

What can you do if your double glazed 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 your double glazing system is functioning as it is supposed to. The condensation that forms outside your windows in mornings is caused by the temperature of the cold glass falling below the dewpoint of surrounding air. This causes water vapour from the air to be drawn into the window where it condenses. This can be exacerbated by plants that generate excessive moisture in your home and also by high levels of humidity.

If you notice condensation appearing inside your double glazing this is a more serious issue and a sign that the seal between the two glass panes has been broken, allowing warm air from your house to enter while insulating gas is evaporating. This can cause significant damage to the double glazing and should it not be addressed it will have a significant impact on your energy bills.

Installing replacement double Glazing window double glazing as soon as this type of condensation is noticed can reduce the likelihood that it will get worse and save you money in the end. It is also a great opportunity to upgrade your double glazing to energy efficient A-rated windows. This will make your home more comfortable and lower your energy bills.

2. Wear and tear signs

Double glazing provides a number of benefits, including noise insulation and a reduction in energy costs. Like all products double-glazed windows have a life span. It is essential to know the signs of when they are at the end of their lifespan.

One of the most obvious indicators is visible condensation. It is caused by the temperature difference between the two glass panes and if you observe this it's a good indicator that the window seal has failed and it's time to have the windows replaced.

If the window seal fails, cold air can enter your home. This is not just a waste of electricity, but also causes damp and mold. Both of them are costly to repair. Additionally, both damp and mould are detrimental to health because they can produce allergens and irritants that can affect your family's health.

Draughts are another sign of sealants that have begun to wear. This allows outside noise to enter your home, which could be distracting. This can impact your ability to work from home or how relaxing your home is.

If windows aren't opening and closing in a smooth manner, it's also an indication that they should be changed. It can be a safety issue if your windows aren't opening in a crisis situation like an incident involving fire in your home. This is a problem you shouldn't ignore. A qualified window fitter can evaluate the condition of your existing windows and provide recommendations on the best course of action.

3. Draughts

If you are experiencing draughts out of your windows, it's likely that the seals on your double glazing have failed. A sealant is used to secure the glass panes together and aid with insulation, but this is often damaged due to weather changes or simply aging. This causes cold air to enter your home, and warm air to escape, causing drafts and a decrease in energy efficiency.

A window frame that is shaped incorrectly and not sealing properly can cause drafts. The moisture can also get caught in the window frame, causing draughts over time. This is a serious issue and you must replace your double-glazed windows as soon as possible.

A double-glazed window that has a mist is a clear sign your sealed unit has sprung an open leak or that the gas between the panes has escaped. This is a serious issue and needs to be repaired immediately to stop water from entering your property, stopping heat from leaving and reducing the efficiency of your insulation. If your windows are under warranty, contact the company and they will be able to repair windows for you.

Double glazing cracks and chips aren't always a sign of needing to be replaced however they can have an impact on the overall performance. In addition to allowing cold air to pass through, they can reduce the amount of light let in and cause draughts. If your windows have large cracks or chips, they might not be able to support the weight of replacement units, which will require new window frames.

4. Higher Utility Bills

It's important to keep the cost of energy as low as you can. The high cost of energy doesn't just take a chunk out of your budget, they also put unnecessary stress on the environment, something we all want to try and do less of. Leaky windows are a major reason for high energy bills. They do not just let heat escape from your home, but they also create draughts which require you to use more energy to heat your house. Replacing double glazing with energy efficient windows will help to reduce energy costs and help you save money year after year.

If you notice condensation between double-glazed panes, it is an indication that your windows must be replaced. It's a sign that the seal has failed and air is leaking in and out of your house and that the insulation is not working as it should.

Another sign that your double glazing needs replacement is if they're misting up. This is a clear sign that the seal has failed and water is getting trapped between the glass panes. Having your double glazing replaced will prevent moisture from getting into your home, stop heat escape and help keep your home warm.

You can save energy and improve the appearance of your home, and conserve heat by replacing your double-glazed windows by energy-efficient windows. This will also increase the value of your home and make it more attractive to prospective buyers should you decide to sell. With Category B-rated double glazing, you can expect to save up to PS115 per year on heating costs, which will swiftly pay for the cost of the windows you have purchased.

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 important to have your double glazing repaired as soon possible in the event that the glass has turned misty. This can be a safety issue. In addition, it may be costing you more in energy bills than necessary due to the loss of insulation.

Moisture in the air between your IGU's (insulated glass units) can cause misted windows. Gas inside the glass, mostly Krypton or argon helps in insulating. If the seal fails the gas leaks which causes the window handles replacement to fog.

A premature seal failure is a clear sign of a defective product so make sure to verify your warranty for coverage. Some manufacturers offer a prorated guarantee that is based on the age of the window. This may be something to consider.

Other indications that your uPVC window needs to be replaced include: