The Most Significant Issue With Replacement Double Glazing Windows And How To Fix It
Replacing Double Glazed Windows
There are a myriad of alternatives to choose from, whether you're looking for uPVC cases or sash made of aluminium. They can be customized to your aesthetic needs and energy efficiency requirements. Modern double glazing comes with a host of benefits like noise reduction, replacement Double glazing Windows UV-ray protection, and security of your property with multipoint locking mechanisms.
But, what do you do when your double glazing shows signs of wear and wear and
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 a normal occurrence and indicates that the double glazing unit is performing exactly as it is supposed to. The condensation outside your windows during the morning is due to the temperature of the cold glass falling below the dewpoint of the air surrounding it. This causes water vapour from the air to be drawn into the cold window where it condenses. This can be exacerbated by the presence of plants in your home that create excessive moisture as well as high humidity.
If you notice condensation appearing in your double glazing, this is a more serious problem. It is an indication that the seal between the glass panes is broken. This allows warm air from your home to get in while the gas that insulates it escapes. This can cause severe damage to your double glazing and if untreated, will cause a significant impact on your energy bill.
Installing replacement double glazing as soon as this type of condensation is spotted will decrease the likelihood that it will get worse and cost you more 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 and reducing your energy bills 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 item, double glazed windows have a life span and it's crucial to be aware of the indicators that they're reaching the end of their usefulness.
One of the most obvious indicators is the visible condensation. It is caused by the difference in temperature between the two glass panes and if you see this, it's a sign that the seal on the window has failed, and it's time to get the windows replaced.
If the window seal fails the cold air can get into your home. This not only wastes electricity but also leads to damp and mould. Both of them are expensive to repair. Furthermore, both damp and mould are detrimental to health as they can create allergens and irritants which can affect the health of your family.
Draughts around your windows are another sign that the sealants have started to wear. This can allow outside noise to enter your home which can be a big distraction, particularly when you live near an area with a lot of traffic or noisy neighbours. This can impact your ability to work from home, or how relaxing your home feels.
If the windows aren't opening and closing smoothly it's an indication that they should be replaced. This could be a security issue if the windows aren't able to open when required in an emergency such as a fire, and should not be ignored. A professional window installer will be able assess the condition of the windows you have and provide recommendations on the best course.
3. Draughts
If you notice draughts coming out of your windows, it is likely that the seals in your double glazing have burst. A sealant is used to hold the glass panes together and aid with insulation, but this is often damaged due to weather changes or simply aging. In the end, cold air comes into your home, and warm air escapes creating draughts, which leads to decreased energy efficiency.
A window frame that is not properly shaped and not sealing properly could also cause drafts. This means that moisture may get trapped within the frame, which could also cause draughts and rotting as time passes. This is a serious problem and you should replace your double glazing as soon as you can.
A double-glazed window that has a mist is a clear sign your sealed unit has sprung a leak or the gas between the panes is escaping. This is a serious issue and you will need to replace it immediately in order to stop water from entering your property. It will also stop heat from escaping, and reduce the effectiveness of your insulation. If your windows are covered by warranty, you can request the company to replace them.
Chips and cracks in your double-glazed windows aren't necessarily a sign that they need replacing, but they could have a negative impact on the overall performance. In addition to allowing cold air to get in, they can reduce the amount of light allowed through and lead to drafts. If your windows are afflicted with deep cracks or chips, they might not be strong enough to support the weight of Replacement double glazing windows units, which will require new frames for windows.
4. Increased Utility Bills
Energy costs are a major expense for households, which is why it is essential to keep them as low as possible. High energy bills are not only costly but also put an unnecessary stress on the environment. We all want to decrease this. One of the most significant reasons for rising energy costs is leaky windows, which let heat escape from your home, but also create drafts that force you to use more energy to heat your home. Replacing double glazing with energy efficient windows will aid in reducing energy costs and help you save money year after year.
If you notice condensation between the double-glazed panes, it's a sign that your windows require to be replaced. It's a sign the seal is broken, which means that air is leaking in and out of your home, and that the insulation isn't working as it should.
If your double glazing is misting it's time to replace them. This is a clear indication that the seal has failed and water is getting trapped between the panes of glass. The replacement of your double glazing will stop moisture from getting into your home, stop heat leaving and help keep your home warm.
You can reduce energy usage and improve the appearance of your home and save heat by replacing your double-glazed windows by energy-efficient windows. It will also add value to your home and make it more appealing to potential buyers should you decide to sell it in the future. 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 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 is becoming cloudy, you must get this repaired as soon as you can as it's a safety concern. It may also cost you more in energy bills because of the loss in insulation.
Misted windows are caused by moisture in the air between the two panes of your IGU (insulated glass unit). The gas contained within the glass - usually argon or krypton - helps in insulating the glass, and if the seal fails this gas leaks out, causing the window replacement cost to fog up.
Examine your warranty to see if it covers premature seal failure. In certain cases, manufacturers offer a prorated warranty which is based on the age of your windows, so this may be an option to consider.
Other indications that you may need to replace your uPVC windows are:
