Replacing Double Glazed Windows
No matter if you’re looking for uPVC Sash windows or aluminium casements, there’s a vast variety of options to fit the style of your home as well as your energy efficiency needs. Modern double glazing comes with a myriad of advantages that include noise reduction, UV protection and property security thanks to multipoint locking mechanisms.
However, what can you do if 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 normal and is a sign that the double glazing unit is operating exactly as it should. Condensation on the outside of your windows in the morning is due to the glass’s temperature dropping below the dew point of surrounding air, which causes water vapour to rise from the air into the cold glass, where it cools. This can be exacerbated by the presence of plants within your home that produce excessive moisture and by high humidity.
If condensation forms within your double glazing, it is a far more serious issue and a sign that the seal between the two glass panes is broken and allows warm air from your house to get in while insulating gas is lost. This can cause serious damage to your double glazing and if left untreated will have a significant impact on the cost of energy.
Installing replacement double glazing immediately you detect this kind of condensation can dramatically reduce the possibility that the issue becomes worse, and save you money in the end. Replacement of your double glazing could also be an excellent opportunity to upgrade to A-rated energy efficient windows, making your home more comfortable as well as reducing your utility bills even further.
2. Signs of Wear and Tear
Double glazing can provide many benefits including cutting down on energy bills and also reducing noise. However, just like any other product double glazed windows are not a lifetime product and it’s important to be aware of indications that they are nearing the point of no return.
One of the most obvious signs is visible condensation that is visible. It is caused by the difference in temperature between the two panes of glass and if you notice this it’s a good indicator 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. This is not just a waste of energy, but can also cause damp and mould both of which are costly to fix. Additionally, both damp as well as mould can be harmful to your health as they can create allergens and irritants which can affect the health of your family.
Draughts are a sign of sealants that are beginning to wear. This lets outside noise enter your home and be a big distraction, particularly when you live near an area with a lot of traffic or noisy neighbours. This could affect your ability to work from home or how relaxing your home feels.
Finally, if the windows no longer open and close smoothly, 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 can assess the condition of your existing windows and give suggestions on the best course of action.
3. Draughts
If you’ve noticed drafts passing through your windows, it’s usually a sign that the seals inside your double glazing have burst. Sealants are used to secure the glass panes together and help with insulation, but it can be damaged by changes in weather or by simply ageing. This can cause 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 bent and not sealing properly. In the result, moisture can get trapped in 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 is possible to avoid any further problems.
A double-glazed window that has a misty appearance is a sign that the sealed unit has leaked or the gas has escaped between the panes. This is a serious issue and you should replace it right away to stop water from entering your property. It also stops heat from escaping and reduce the efficiency of your insulation. If your windows remain under warranty, contact the company and they should be able to repair them for you.
Cracks and chips in your double glazing aren’t always a sign they require replacement however, misty they can have a negative impact on their overall performance. In addition to allowing cold air to pass through it, they could limit the amount of light let in and cause draughts. In addition If there are significant cracks or chips on your windows, it is unlikely that they will be able to support the weight of a replacement window glass near me unit, which would require the creation of a new window frame.
4. Higher Utility Bills
It’s important to keep energy costs as low as you can. Energy bills that are high not only cost a lot of your budget, they also put unnecessary pressure on the environment, something we all want to try and do less of. One of the most significant reasons for rising energy costs is leaky windows, which allow heat to escape from your home, but also create drafts that force you to make use of more energy to heat your property. Installing double glazing using windows that are energy efficient will aid in reducing energy costs and save you money year after year.
If you notice condensation on the double-glazed panes of glass, it’s a sign that your windows must be replaced. This is an indication of a damaged seal, which means air is leaking out of the house. The insulation is also not functioning properly.
Another indication that your double glazing needs replacement is if they’re misting up. This is a clear indication that the seal has failed and water is getting trapped between the glass panes. Double glazing will prevent the entry of moisture into your home, stop heat from escaping and keep your home warm.
You can cut down on energy consumption and enhance 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, making it more appealing to potential buyers in the event that you decide to sell. You are likely to save PS115 in heating bills per year with double glazing that is classified as B. This will pay for the cost of your 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 important to have your double glazing fixed immediately in the event that the glass has turned blurred. This can be a safety issue. In addition, it may be costing you more in energy bills than is necessary because of the loss of insulation.
The cause of misty windows is moisture in the air between the two panes of your IGU (insulated glass unit). Gas inside the glass, usually argon or krypton aids in insulation. When the seal fails this gas leaks out, causing your window to become cloudy.
Premature seal failure is a clear indication of a defective product so make sure to verify your warranty for coverage. Some manufacturers offer a prorated warranty, based on the age of your window. This could be something you should consider.
Other signs that you need to replace your uPVC windows include: