Replacing Double Glazed Windows

No matter if you're looking for upvc window handle replacement sash windows or aluminium casements, there's an extensive selection of options to fit the style of your property and your energy efficiency requirements. Modern double glazing comes with a myriad of advantages such as noise reduction as well as UV protection. It also provides security thanks to multipoint locking mechanisms.

What should 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.

In contrast, condensation on the outside of your windows is a normal event and indicates that the double glazing unit is performing just as it should. Condensation on the outside of your windows in the morning occurs due to the cold glass temperature dropping below the dew point of the air surrounding it, causing water vapour to rise from the air and into the cold glass, where it cools. This is made worse by the presence of plants in your home that produce excessive moisture and by high humidity.

When condensation appears within your double glazing, this is a more serious issue and a sign that the seal between the two glass panes has broken which allows warm air from your house to get in while insulating gas is lost. This can cause significant damage to the double glazing and should it not be addressed, will significantly impact on the cost of energy.

Installing replacement double glazing when this kind of condensation is spotted will decrease the likelihood that it will worsen and cost you more in the end. It's also an excellent 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. Signs of Wear and Tear

Double glazing offers a lot of benefits, including noise insulation and a reduction in energy costs. Like any product double glazed windows have a life span. It is essential to know the signs of when they are reaching the end of their lifespan.

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

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 expensive to repair. Both mould and damp can be harmful to your health, as they can cause allergies and irritations that can affect the health of your family.

Draughts around windows are another sign that the sealants have started to wear. This can allow outside noise to enter your home which can be a major Cost Of Replacement Windows Uk distraction, particularly in the case of an area with a lot of traffic or noisy neighbours. This can affect your ability to work from home, or how relaxing your home feels.

If the windows aren't opening and closing with ease it's an indication that they should be changed. It can be a safety issue if the windows don't open in an emergency situation, such as the event of a house fire. This is a problem you shouldn't ignore. A qualified window fitter will be able assess the condition of your existing windows and offer suggestions on the best way to proceed.

3. Draughts

If you have noticed draughts coming through your windows, it is usually a sign that seals in your double glazing have burst. A sealant is used to hold the glass panes together and aid with insulation, but it can often be damaged by changes in weather conditions or simply ageing. In the end cold air enters your home and warm air is emitted, leading to draughts and reduced energy efficiency.

A window frame that is not properly shaped and is not sealed properly could cause draughts. As a result, moisture can get trapped in the frame, which can also cause draughts and rotting over time. This is a serious problem and it is important to get your double glazing replaced as soon as is possible to avoid further problems.

A double-glazed window that has a misty appearance is a sign that the sealed unit has leaking or the gas escapes between the panes. This is a serious issue and you will need to replace it right away to stop water from entering your property. It also prevents heat from escaping, and will reduce the effectiveness of your insulation. If your windows remain under guarantee, check with the company and they should be able to replace windows for you.

Chips and cracks in your double-glazed windows aren't necessarily a sign that they need replacing however, they can have a negative impact on the overall performance. They can also reduce the amount of light that goes through, leading to draughts. If your windows have deep cracks or chips, they might not be able to support the weight of replacement units and would require new window frames.

4. Increased Utility Bills

Energy costs are a major cost for a household and it is essential to keep them as low as possible. High energy bills not only cost Of replacement windows Uk a lot of your budget, but they also put unnecessary stress on the environment - something we all wish to reduce our impact of. Windows that leak are a major reason for high energy bills. They don't just let heat escape from your home and into the outside, but they also cause draughts which require you to use additional energy to heat your home. Installing double glazing using energy efficient windows can help to reduce energy costs and will save you money year after year.

If you notice condensation appearing between the panes of your double glazing, it's a clear indication that they need to be replaced. It's a sign that the seal has broken and air is leaking in and out of your home and cost of replacement windows uk that the insulation is not working as it should be.

If your double glazing is getting misty, it's time to replace them. This is a clear indication that the seal has broken and water is accumulating between the glass panes. The replacement handles for windows of your double glazing will prevent moisture from entering your home, preventing heat from escaping and help to keep your home warm.

You can save energy and improve the appearance of your home and save heat by replacing your double-glazed windows with energy-efficient windows. It will also increase the value of your home which will make it more appealing to prospective buyers should you decide to sell. With category B-rated double glazing, you can expect to save as much as PS115 per year in heating costs, which will swiftly 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. It may also cost you more in energy costs due to the loss of insulation.

The cause of misty windows is moisture in the air between the two panes of your IGU (insulated glass unit). The gas contained within the glass - typically argon or krypton - helps with insulation, and when the seal fails, this gas leaks out, causing the window seal replacement to fog.

Failure of the seal in the early stages is a clear indicator of a problem with the product, so make sure to verify your warranty for coverage. In certain cases, manufacturers offer a prorated warranty which is based on the age of your windows, so this could be an option worth considering.

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