Replacing Double Glazed Windows

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 home as well as your energy efficiency requirements. Modern double glazing comes with numerous benefits like noise reduction, UV-ray protection and security for your home 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 functioning exactly as it should. The condensation outside your windows during the morning is due to the temperature of the glass that is cold falling below the dewpoint of the air surrounding it. This causes water vapour from the air to be drawn into the window where it condenses. This is made more difficult by plants that create excess moisture in your house and also by high levels of humidity.

If condensation forms within your double glazing, this is a much more serious problem and an indication that the seal between the two glass panes is broken, allowing warm air from your home to get in while insulating gas is evaporating. This can cause significant damage to the double glazing and should it not be addressed, will significantly impact on your energy bills.

Installing replacement double-glazed windows when you first detect this kind of condensation can dramatically reduce the chance that the issue will get worse, thereby saving you money in the long term. It is also a great opportunity to upgrade your double glazing to energy-efficient A-rated windows. This will improve the comfort of your home and will lower your utility costs.

2. Signs of Wear and Tear

Double glazing can provide a variety of benefits, including noise insulation and a reduction in energy bills. Like all other products double-glazed windows have a life expectancy. It is essential to know the signs of when they are reaching the end of their usefulness.

One of the most obvious indicators is visible condensation. This is due to the difference in temperatures between the two panes. If you notice it then it could be an indication that the window seals have failed.

If the window seal fails, then cold air can be allowed to enter your home. This is not just a waste of energy, but can also lead to damp and mould and both cost a lot to repair. Both damp and mould can be harmful to your health, because they can trigger allergens and irritations that could impact the health of your family.

Draughts around windows are another sign that sealants 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 feels.

If the windows are not opening and closing smoothly It's also an indication that they require to be replaced. It can be a safety issue if the windows don't open in a situation of emergency, such as an incident involving fire in your home. This is something you should not ignore. A qualified window fitter will be able to examine the condition of your current windows and glaze provide recommendations on the best method of action.

3. Draughts

If you see draughts emanating out of your windows, it's likely that the seals in your double glazing have failed. A sealant is used to hold the panes of glass together and assist in insulating, however this can be damaged by weather changes or simply aging. As a result, cold air comes into your home, while warm air is emitted, leading to draughts and decreased energy efficiency.

Another reason why draughts might be causing the problem is that the frame of your window is bent and not sealing properly. Moisture can also get trapped inside the window frame, causing drafts over time. This is a serious problem and you must replace your double glazing as soon as you can.

A misted double-glazed window is an indication that the sealed unit has leaked or gas has escaped between the panes. This is a serious issue and it will need replacing immediately to prevent water 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 replace window handles them for you.

Cracks and chips in double glazing are not always a sign of needing replacement, glaze but they may have an impact on the overall performance. They also decrease the amount of light that goes through, which can cause draughts. If your windows have large cracks or chips, they may not be strong enough to support the weight of replacement handles for windows units that would require new window frames.

4. Higher Utility Bills

Energy costs are a significant household expense and that's why it is essential to keep them as low as is possible. High energy bills not only take a chunk out of your budget, they also put unnecessary strain on the environment - something we all want to reduce our impact of. One of the main reasons for rising energy costs is leaky windows, which let heat escape your home, but can also create drafts that force you to use more energy to heat your home. Installing double glazing using energy efficient windows can help to reduce energy costs and help you save money year after year.

If you see condensation appearing between the panes of your double glazing it's a clear indication that they need replacing. It's a sign that the seal has broken, which means that air is entering and out of your home and that the insulation is not functioning as it should.

Another sign that your double glazing is in need of replacing is if they are misting up. This is a sign the seal is damaged and water is trapped between the glass panes. Having your double glazing replaced will stop water from getting into your home, prevent heat from leaving and help keep your house warm.

By having your double glazed windows replaced with a brand new energy-efficient window, you will be able to conserve heat, lower your energy consumption and enhance the appearance of your home. It will also increase the value of your home which will make it more appealing to buyers in the event that you decide to sell. With Category B rated double glazing, you can anticipate saving up to PS115 per year on heating costs, which will swiftly pay for 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 cloudy, you must get this repaired as soon as you can, as it's a safety concern. It could also cost you more in energy bills because of the loss in insulation.

The cause of misty windows is moisture in the air between the two panes of your IGU (insulated glass unit). The gas inside the glass - typically argon or krypton - assists with insulation, and when the seal fails this gas leaks out, which causes the window to become fogged.

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

Other indicators that you should to replace your uPVC windows are: