How Can I Tell If My Double Glazing Needs Replacing?
Forward-thinking homeowners often consider making upgrades to the quality of their properties. Thinking ahead can save you money, stress and time, as repairs are often costly. It’s natural to wonder if there’s ever a perfect time to invest in improvements to your home- and while we’d argue there’s no perfect time to do so, there are some sure-fire signs to look out for that your property could benefit from improvement!
At Alaskan Windows & Doors, we care about providing high quality home improvements that perform well for years to come. However, almost all improvement efforts degrade over time, which makes it super important to know when it’s time to replace your older upgrades! Our team at Alaskan Windows & Doors pride ourselves on providing fresh sets of high quality windows and doors to homeowners across Sutton, London and Surrey. But how do you know when it’s time for a new upgrade?
Double Glazing Can Degrade
Double glazing has been a popular choice for homeowners for decades, providing insulation and security from the elements. But over time, double glazing can degrade, leading to costly repairs or replacements. The most common issue with double glazing is condensation. This is caused when the air between the two panes of glass is unable to circulate properly and gets trapped. As the air becomes saturated, it creates condensation on the glass. If left unchecked, this can cause long-term damage to the window frame and sealant, leading to expensive repairs or replacements.
Other issues with double glazing include warping and discolouration of the glass. Warping occurs when the glass is exposed to high temperatures, such as hot summer days, or when the window is exposed to direct sunlight. This can cause the glass to warp, leading to gaps in the window frame and sealant. Discolouration of the glass can be caused by UV rays from the sun, which can cause the glass to turn yellow or brown over time.
Double glazing installations are designed to last for many years, but there comes a time when it’s important to replace them. If your double glazing is declining in energy efficiency, quality, security or aesthetics, it might be time to plan upgrading to a fresh set.
What Should I Look Out For?
It’s not always simple to figure out when your double glazing could do with replacement. However, there are some telltale signs that your windows and doors are degrading in quality. Here’s a few handy tips:
1 – Look Out For Draughts
If there is a draft coming from your windows or if they feel cold to the touch, this could be a sign that your double glazed windows may have failed. Check around the window frame- if you notice areas where cold air is entering the room, then this means that your insulating frame has been compromised. This is a surefire sign that it’s time to replace your window or door. Heat can escape through draughty areas, allowing cold air to make its way into your property. Become a ‘draught detective’ and inspect your home for colder patches!
2 – Can You See Condensation?
Double glazed windows and doors are designed to keep moisture away from your property. If you’ve noticed more condensation than usual between the panels of your double glazing, this could indicate the seals on your windows have failed and need replacing, in order to avoid any damage caused by damp. Inspect your home for frosted areas that are wet between the panes. Condensation can do serious damage to not only your windows, but also the rest of your property over time- making it super important to look out for!
3 – Foggy Glass
If the window’s glass has become cloudy or misty, then this could be a sign that moisture has entered between the panes. This is another indication that the seal protecting your double glazing has been compromised. Sometimes, foggy glass exists as a precursor to condensation, so it’s a good early indicator of this problem. Foggy glass lets you know that the windows of your property are cold enough to let moisture condense- letting you know it’s time for replacement.
4 – Common Framing Finds
It’s also important to inspect the framing of your windows. If you have older timber windows, keep an eye out for rotting, warping or cracking. For more modern materials, look for gaps in the framing or breaks inside the inner seals of your double glazing. It’s also worth taking the time to inspect the hardware of your property- do all the windows and doors lock as they should? Are they stiff, squeaky or loose? These are also signs that your property could do with an upgrade.
Problems with the frames of your windows and doors matter for more reasons than just thermal efficiency. Framing problems can cause the security of your property to be compromised, making it easier for potential intruders to gain access to your property. It can also make it more difficult to use a certain designated window as a fire exit, making it very important to keep an eye on!
Why Should I replace my double glazing?
If you upgrade your double glazing your energy expenditures will be reduced thanks to advanced double glazing on the market. Even though the advantages double glazing can have on a structure have been widely publicised, it’s estimated that 7% of UK residences lack double glazing. This is likely because many property owners are ignorant of the details of double-glazing installation and how it may affect energy costs, security and weatherproofing.
When installing modern double glazing you will reap the benefits as well as gaining a new energy efficient sanctuary with stunning aesthetics.
Looking For Fresh Windows or Doors?
If you’ve decided that your property could do with a fresh set of windows or new, sturdier doors, look no further than Alaskan Windows & Doors. We offer a bespoke range of home improvements, suitable for both traditional and modern properties.
We would love to help you upgrade your home and keep it protected, warm and comfortable for years to come. To discuss our full range of home improvements, contact our friendly team. Let’s get started on replacing your older double glazing today!
