Lowell Pownall asked 6 months ago
Replacing Double Glazed Windows
There are a variety of options to choose from, whether you prefer uPVC cases or sash made of aluminium. They can be adapted to meet your aesthetic requirements and energy efficiency requirements. Modern double glazing comes with a myriad of benefits, including noise reduction and UV protection, as well as property security thanks to multipoint locking mechanisms.
What can 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 sash 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.
In contrast, condensation on the outside of your windows is a normal occurrence and indicates that the double glazing unit is operating exactly as it should. The condensation that forms outside your windows in the morning is due to the temperature of the cold glass dropping below the dewpoint of surrounding air. This causes the water vapour in the air to be drawn into the window where it condenses. This is aggravated by the presence of plants in your home that create excessive moisture and by high humidity.
If condensation forms inside your double-glazed unit, this is a much more serious problem and an indication that the seal between the two glass replacement windows panes has broken, allowing warm air from your house to get in while the gas that is used to insulate it is lost. This can cause severe damage to your double glazing and if not addressed, could cause a significant impact on your energy bill.
Installing replacement double glazing when you first notice this type of condensation can dramatically reduce the likelihood that the problem will get worse, thereby saving you money in the end. Replacement of your double glazing could also be a great way to upgrade to A-rated energy efficient windows, making your home more comfortable and reducing your utility bills even further.
2. Wear and tear signs
Double glazing offers many advantages that include cutting down on energy bills and also reducing noise. However, as with any other item, double glazed windows are not a lifetime product and it is important to be aware of indications that they are nearing the point of no return.
One of the most obvious signs is the visible condensation. This is because of the different temperature of the two panes. If you notice it then it could be a sign that the window seals have failed.
If the window seal is not working the cold air can get into your home. This not only wastes energy, but also results in damp and mould. Both of them are costly to repair. Both damp and mould can be detrimental to your health as they can cause allergens and irritations that can affect the health of your family.
Draughts in your windows are another sign that the sealants have started to wear. This lets outside noise be heard in your home, which can be a major distraction, especially if you live close to a busy road or noisy neighbours. This can affect your ability to work from home or how peaceful your home feels.
Finally, if the windows aren’t opening and close smoothly, it’s a sign that they need to be replaced. This could be a security issue if windows fail to open in the event of a fire and should not be ignored. A professional window installer will be able to evaluate the condition of the windows you currently have and provide recommendations on the best way to proceed.
3. Draughts
If you’ve noticed draughts coming through your windows, this is usually a sign that the seals inside your double glazing have burst. A sealant is used to hold the panes of glass together and assist with insulation, but it is often damaged by changes in weather conditions or simply ageing. This causes cold air to enter your home, and warm air to escape, leading to drafts and a decrease in energy efficiency.
A window frame that is not properly shaped and not sealing properly could also lead to drafts. As a result, moisture may get trapped within the frame, which will also cause rotting and draughts over time. This is a serious issue and you should replace your double glazing as quickly as possible.
A double-glazed window that has a misty appearance is an indication that the sealed unit has let out or gas escapes between the panes. This is a serious issue and needs to be repaired immediately to stop water from entering your property, stopping heat from leaving and reducing the effectiveness of your insulation. If your windows are under warranty, contact the company and they will be able to replace window handle windows for you.
Double glazing cracks and chips aren’t always a signal of needing replacement however, they could affect the overall performance. They also decrease the amount of light that flows through, which can cause drafts. Additionally If there are significant cracks or chips on your windows, it’s unlikely that they’ll be able to support the weight of a replacement unit which would require an entirely new window frame.
4. More Utility Bills
Energy costs are a major expense for households and that’s why it is essential to keep them as low as possible. The high cost of energy is not only costly however they also place unnecessary stress on the environment. We all want to reduce the impact of this. Leaky windows are a major reason for high energy bills. They not only let heat escape from your home and into the outside, but they also cause draughts which require the use of additional energy to heat your house. Installing double glazing using energy efficient windows can aid in reducing energy costs and save you money year after year.
If you notice condensation on the double-glazed panes, it’s a sign that your windows need to be replaced. It’s a sign that the seal has failed and air is leaking in and out of your home and that the insulation isn’t working as it should be.
Another sign that your double glazing needs replacement is if they’re misting up. This is a sign that the seal has been damaged and water is leaking between the glass panes. A replacement of your double-glazed windows will prevent moisture from getting into your home, stop heat escaping and help to keep your house warm.
You can save energy and enhance the appearance of your home and save heat by replacing your double-glazed windows with energy efficient windows. This will also boost the value of your home which will make it more appealing to prospective buyers in the event that you decide to sell. With Category B rated double glazing you can expect to save up to 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.
It is crucial to get your double glazing fixed immediately if the glass has become misty. This can be a security issue. It could also cost you more in energy costs due to the loss of insulation.
The air humidity between your IGU’s (insulated glass units) can cause misty windows. The gas contained within the glass – typically argon or krypton – helps with insulation, and when the seal fails, this gas leaks out, glass Replacement windows causing the window to become fogged.
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 scaled according to the age of your windows, so this could be a viable option.
Other indications that your uPVC window requires to be replaced include: