Miles Wilshire спросил 3 дня назад
Replacing Double Glazed Windows
No matter if you’re looking for uPVC sash windows or aluminium casements, there’s a wide selection of options to suit the aesthetic of your property and your energy efficiency needs. Modern double glazing has many advantages, including noise reduction, UV protection and property security through multipoint locking mechanisms.
What should 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’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 the windows is normal and indicates that the double glazing unit is operating as it should. The condensation outside your windows during the morning is caused by the temperature of the cold glass falling below the dewpoint of the air surrounding it. This causes the water vapour in the air to be drawn into the cold window, where it condenses. This can be made worse by plants that produce excessive moisture in your home as well as by high levels humidity.
If you notice condensation in your double glazing, this is an even more serious issue. It is a sign that your seal between the glass panes is broken. This allows warm air from your home to pass through while the gas that insulates it escapes. This can cause serious damage to your double-glazed windows, and if untreated, will cause a significant impact on your energy bills.
Installing replacement double glazing immediately after this type of condensation is spotted will decrease the likelihood that it will get worse, saving you money in the end. The replacement of your double-glazed windows can also be an excellent opportunity to upgrade to energy-efficient A-rated windows that will make your home more comfortable and reducing costs for energy.
2. Wear and tear signs
Double glazing can provide many benefits, such as reducing energy bills and reducing noise. Like any product double glazed windows have a life expectancy. It is essential to know the signs of when they are reaching the end of their usefulness.
Visible condensation is one of the most evident indicators. It is caused by the difference in temperature 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 to get the windows replaced.
If the window seal fails, cold air can enter your home. This is not only a waste of electricity, but also causes damp and mould. Both of these are costly to fix. Both mould and damp can be harmful to your health, because they can trigger allergens and irritations that could impact the wellbeing of your family.
Draughts are another indication of sealants beginning to wear. This can allow outside noise to enter your home which can be a huge distraction, particularly if you live close to 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.
If windows do not open or close smoothly, it’s an indication that they require to be replaced. This can be a safety issue if windows fail to open in the event of an emergency fire, and should not be overlooked. A professional window fitter can assess the condition of your existing windows and provide recommendations on the best course of action.
3. Draughts
If you’ve noticed draughts entering your windows, it is usually a sign that the seals within your double glazing have blown. Sealant is used to hold the glass replacement on windows panes and provide insulation. However, this can be damaged by weather conditions or simply ageing. This can cause cold air to enter your home, and warm air to escape, causing the draughts to increase and decrease energy efficiency.
A window frame that is not properly shaped and is not sealed properly could cause drafts. Moisture can also get trapped in the window frame, causing draughts as time passes. This is a serious issue and you must replace your double-glazed windows as soon as possible.
A misted double glazed window is a clear indication that the sealed unit has developed an air leak or the gas between the panes has escaped. 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 efficiency of your insulation. If your windows are covered by warranty, you can ask the company to replace them.
Double glazing cracks and chips aren’t always a sign of needing to be replaced however, they could have an impact on the overall performance. They may also limit the amount of light that flows through, which can cause drafts. In addition, if there are deep cracks or chips in your windows, it’s unlikely that they will be able to support the weight of a replacement unit, which would require an entirely new window frame.
4. More Utility Bills
It is essential to keep your energy costs as low as you can. Energy bills that are high are not only costly however they also place unnecessary stress on the environment. We all want to reduce the impact of this. Leaky windows are the main reason for high energy costs. They don’t just let heat escape from your home and create drafts that require the use of additional energy to heat your house. Installing double glazing using energy efficient windows can reduce your energy bills and help you save money year after year.
If you notice condensation forming between the panes of your double glazing it’s a clear indication that they need to be replaced. This is a sign of a broken seal, which means that air is leaking out of the home. The insulation may not be working properly.
Another sign that your double glazing needs replacement double Glazing windows is if they’re misting up. This is a sign the seal has been damaged and that water is trapped between the glass panes. The replacement of your double glazing will stop moisture from getting into your home, preventing heat from escape and help keep your home warm.
You can cut down on energy consumption, improve the look of your home and preserve heat by replacing your double-glazed windows with energy-efficient windows. This will also add value to your home which makes it more appealing to prospective buyers if you decide to sell it in the near future. You can expect to save PS115 in heating bills per year with double glazing that is rated as category B. This will quickly 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.
If the glass in your double glazing has become cloudy, you must fix it as quickly as you can as it’s an immediate safety risk. In addition, it may be costing you more in energy bills than you need to because of the loss of insulation.
Misted windows are caused by moisture in the air between the two panes of your IGU (insulated glass unit). Gas within the glass, typically Krypton or argon aids in insulation. If the seal fails, this gas leaks and causes your window to fog.
Examine your warranty to see if it covers premature seal failure. Some manufacturers offer a prorated guarantee in accordance with the time of the window. This is something you should consider.
Other signs that you need to replace your uPVC windows include:
