Petra Gunter asked 3 months ago
Replacing Double Glazed Windows
No matter if you’re looking for uPVC sash windows or aluminium casements, there’s a wide range of options available to suit the aesthetic of your home and your energy efficiency needs. Modern double glazing provides a host of benefits including noise reduction, UV-ray protection, and security of your property with multipoint locking mechanisms.
What should 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 replacement‘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 the windows is normal and is a sign that your double glazing unit is functioning exactly as it should. The condensation outside your windows during the morning is caused by the temperature of the cold glass dropping below the dewpoint of surrounding air. This causes water vapour from the air to be drawn into the cold window, where it condenses. This is made more difficult by plants that generate excess moisture in your house as well as by high levels humidity.
If you notice condensation in your double glazing, it is a more serious problem. It is a sign that your seal between the glass panes is broken. This allows warm air from inside your home to enter while the gas that insulates it escapes. This could cause significant damage to your double glazing, and if not addressed, could cause a significant impact on the cost of energy.
Installing replacement double-glazed windows as soon as you detect this kind of condensation will drastically reduce the possibility that the issue will get worse, thereby saving you money in the long term. Replacement of your double glazing could also be an excellent opportunity to upgrade to A-rated energy efficient windows, making your home more comfortable and reducing utility bills even further.
2. Wear and tear
Double glazing offers many advantages including cutting down on energy bills and also reducing noise. However, just like any other item, double glazed windows are not a lifetime product and it is important to be aware of indicators that they’re reaching the end of their usefulness.
One of the most obvious indicators is visible condensation. This is due to the differing temperatures between the two panes. If you notice it then it could be a sign the window sash replacement seals have failed.
If the window seal is not working, cold air can enter your home. This is not just a waste of electricity but also leads to damp and mold. Both of them are costly to repair. Both mould and damp can be detrimental to your health as they can cause allergens and irritations that can affect the health of your family.
Draughts are another indication of sealants that are beginning to wear. This allows external noise to enter your home which can be a huge distracting factor, especially when you live near the road that is busy or has noisy neighbours. This could also impact any work you plan to work from home, or simply how relaxing your home is.
If windows aren’t opening and closing with ease it’s an indication that they require to be replaced. This can be a safety issue if the windows fail to open in the event of a fire and should not be ignored. A professional window fitter will be able examine the condition of your existing windows and give suggestions on the best way to proceed.
3. Draughts
If you are experiencing draughts from your windows, it’s likely that the seals on your double glazing have blown. A sealant is used to keep the panes of glass together and assist with insulation, but it is often damaged due to changes in weather or by simply aging. This can cause cold air to enter your home, and warm air to escape, causing draughts and a reduction in energy efficiency.
A window frame that is misshaped and not sealing properly can also cause drafts. This means that moisture could get trapped inside the frame, which can also cause draughts and rotting over time. This is a serious issue and it is essential to get your double glazing replaced as soon as you can to avoid further problems.
A misted double glazed window 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 problem and it will need replacing immediately to prevent water entering your property, stopping heat from escaping and decreasing the effectiveness of your insulation. If your windows are covered by warranty, you can request the company to replace them.
Double glazing cracks and chips aren’t always a signal of needing to be replaced however they can have an impact on the overall performance. They can also reduce the amount of light that goes through, causing draughts. Additionally, if there are deep cracks or chips on your windows, it’s likely that they won’t be able to withstand the weight of a replacement unit, which would require an entirely new window frame.
4. Increased Utility Bills
It is important to keep the cost of energy as low as you can. High energy bills are not only expensive, but they also put unnecessary stress on the environment. We all want to decrease this. Leaky windows are a major cause of high energy bills. They not only let heat escape from your home and create drafts that force you to use more energy to heat your house. The replacement of double glazing with windows that are energy efficient will help to reduce energy costs and help you save money year after year.
If you notice condensation on the double-glazed panes, it’s an indication that your windows require to be replaced. It is a sign that the seal has broken which means that air is leaking in and out of your house and that the insulation is not working as it should.
Another indication that your double glazing needs replacement is if they are misting up. This is a clear indicator that the seal has failed and water is trapped between the glass panes. A replacement double Glazing windows of your double-glazed windows will prevent moisture from getting into your home, stop heat escape and help keep your home warm.
You can reduce energy usage, improve the look of your home and preserve heat by replacing your double-glazed windows by energy-efficient windows. This can also increase the value of your property, making it more attractive for potential buyers if you decide to sell it 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 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.
If the glass in your double glazing has become cloudy, you must repair it as soon as you can, as it’s an immediate safety risk. It could also cost you more in energy costs due to the loss of insulation.
Moisture in the air between your IGU’s (insulated glass units) can cause misted windows. Gas within the glass, typically Krypton or argon helps with insulation. When the seal fails this gas leaks out and causes your window to become cloudy.
Check your warranty to determine whether it covers premature seal failure. In some instances, manufacturers offer a prorated warranty, that is based on the age of your windows, so this may be an option worth considering.
Other signs that you need to replace your uPVC windows include: