Replacing Double Glazed Windows

If you're looking for uPVC Sash windows or aluminium casements, there's a vast selection of options to fit the style of your home as well as your energy efficiency needs. Modern double glazing comes with numerous benefits such as noise reduction, UV-ray protection, and property security from multipoint locking mechanisms.

However, what can you do when your double glazing is showing signs of wear and tear?

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 a normal phenomenon and indicates that your double glazing unit is functioning as it is supposed to. Condensation on the outside of your windows in the morning is because of the cold glass temperature falling below the dew point of surrounding air, which causes water vapour to be drawn from the air into the cold glass, where it cools. This is aggravated by the presence of plants within your home that produce excessive moisture, as well as by high humidity.

If condensation forms inside your double glazing window replacement glazing it is a far more serious issue and a sign that the seal between the two glass panes has broken and allows warm air from your home to find its way in while insulating gas is evaporating. This could cause serious damage to the double glazing and should it not be addressed it will have a significant impact on the cost to replace windows uk of energy.

Installing replacement double-glazed windows immediately you detect this kind of condensation can drastically decrease the likelihood that the problem will get worse, thereby saving you money in the long term. It's also a great opportunity to upgrade your double glazing to energy efficient A-rated windows. This will make your home more comfortable, and reduce your utility costs.

2. Signs of wear and tear

Double glazing offers many advantages, such as reducing energy bills and reducing noise. However, as with any other product double glazed windows are not a lifetime product and it is important to be aware of the signs that they are reaching the point of no return.

Condensation visible is one of the most evident indicators. This is due to the difference in temperature between the two panes of glass and if you notice this, it's an indication that the seal on the window is damaged and it's time for the windows replaced.

If the window seal fails, then cold air is able to enter your home which does more than just waste energy but can also cause damp and mould and both cost a lot to repair. Both damp and mould can be detrimental to your health because they can trigger allergens and irritations that could impact the health of your family.

Draughts around your windows are another sign that sealants have begun to wear. This can allow outside noise to be heard in your home, which can be a major distracting factor, especially in the case of an area with a lot of traffic or noisy neighbors. This could affect your ability to work from home or how relaxing your home feels.

Finally, if the windows aren't opening and close easily, it's an indication that they require to be replaced. This could be a safety issue if windows fail to open when required in the event of a fire, and should not be ignored. A professional window fitter will be able to evaluate the condition of your current windows and offer suggestions on the best way to proceed.

3. Draughts

If you've noticed draughts entering your windows, this is usually a sign that the seals inside your double glazing have failed. Sealant is used to secure the glass panes and provide insulation. However, this can be damaged by weather changes or simply aging. This causes cold air to enter your home, and warm air to escape, leading to the draughts to increase and decrease energy efficiency.

A window frame that is shaped incorrectly and not sealing properly could also lead to drafts. In the result, moisture may get trapped within the frame, which will also cause rotting and draughts over time. This is a serious issue and it is important to have your double glazing replaced as soon as possible to avoid any further issues.

A double-glazed window that has a misty appearance is an indication that the sealed unit has leaked or the gas has escaped between the panes. This is a serious issue and it will need replacing immediately to prevent water entering your home, preventing heat from escaping and reducing the effectiveness of your insulation. If your windows are under guarantee, check with the company and they should be able to repair them for you.

Cracks and chips in double glazing are not always a sign of needing to be replaced however, they could affect the overall performance. While they allow cold air to pass through it, they could reduce the amount of light that is allowed through and lead to draughts. In addition If there are significant cracks or chips in your windows, it's likely that they won't be able to withstand the weight of a replacement double glazing windows unit, which will require the creation of a new window frame.

4. Increased Utility Bills

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

If you notice condensation appearing between the panes of your double-glazing, it is a clear indication that they need replacing. It's a sign the seal is broken, which means that air is entering and out of your home, and that the insulation isn't working as it should be.

If your double glazing is leaking it's time to replace the glass. This is a sign the seal is damaged and water is trapped between the glass panes. A replacement of your double-glazed windows will stop moisture from getting into your home, prevent heat from leaving and help keep your home warm.

You can reduce energy usage and enhance the appearance of your home and preserve heat by replacing your double-glazed windows by energy-efficient windows. This will also increase the value of your home, making it more attractive for potential buyers if you decide to sell in the future. With category B-rated double glazing, you can expect to save up to PS115 per year in heating costs, which can quickly pay for 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.

If the glass in your double glazing has turned misty, it's important to repair it as soon as you can, as it's an issue of safety. In addition, replacement double glazing windows it may be costing you more in energy bills than necessary due to the loss of insulation.

The misty windows are caused by moisture in the air between the two panes of your IGU (insulated glass unit). The gas in the glass - typically argon or krypton - assists with insulation, and when the seal fails this gas escapes, causing the window to fog up.

Premature seal failure is a clear indication of a defective product, so be sure to check your warranty for coverage. Some manufacturers offer a prorated warranty in accordance with the time of the window. This may be something worth considering.

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