Within homes, businesses and commercial properties up and down the country, double glazing has become the norm. Gone are the days of rattling frames and frosty glass; double glazing provides homeowners with energy efficiency, heat retention and security. Since its invention in the mid-1900s, this practical and effective window design has become incredibly popular, with around 93% of UK homes having double glazing fitted.
High-quality double glazing has a lifespan of 20 to 40 years, making it a brilliant addition to most homes. However, as it ages, it may require repair work. Usually, it is the seals that become worn first, but these are easy to fix and relatively cheap too.
The question is, how do you know when your double glazing needs a repair? Here at True Window & Glass Centre Ltd, we’ve put together a guide to answer any questions you may have.
Read on to discover all you need to know.
Misted Double Glazing
One of the telltale signs that your windows need repairing is condensation between the pains.
Among the many benefits of double glazing is its ability to create a barrier between the inside and outside of your home, which helps to prevent condensation. However, if you notice condensation or misting between the panes of your windows, it is a clear sign that the seals are damaged and need repairing. This is because the airtight barrier has been compromised or broken, allowing humid air to enter between the panes and causing condensation to form.
Fortunately, window seals are repairable and condensation within the panes can be reversed, with the right knowledge!
Draughts
If you’ve ever sat at home on a cold winter’s eve and felt a breeze or gust across your skin, you’d be right to check your windows and doors. However, if everything is closed, there could be air creeping through your double-glazed windows. This is a sure sign that they’re in need of some TLC.
As mentioned above, if you feel a draft coming from your windows, even when they are closed, this can also be a sign of damaged seals. When the seals are in good condition, they create an airtight barrier, preventing drafts from entering your home. If you can feel cool air coming through your windows, it means that they are failing to function as required, therefore reducing energy efficiency and causing your heating bills to increase.
Moisture
Similarly to condensation, if you notice moisture or water droplets on the inside of your windows, the seals could well be damaged. This is an especially concerning sign as, if the moisture appears to be coming from the inside of the window, it can easily spread. Though a little moisture may not seem particularly harmful, it can soon develop into much larger issues, such as dampness and rot on floors or ceilings.
Typically, water droplets between double glazing panes, or on the inside of the entire window, is a sign that the air-tight seal holding the insulating gas inside has failed, letting all the insulating gas out. When this occurs, water vapour can get between the two panes.
Warping
Next up on our list of warning signs is warping or bowing. If you notice that your windows have warped or deformed, this can be a sign that the window frames have become distorted, owing to extreme temperature changes or the expansion and contraction of surrounding materials. This can cause the windows to be difficult to open and close, reduce their energy efficiency and damage the seals. Whilst this issue is not specifically related to the double glazing itself, it is well worth keeping in mind.
Discolouration
Another means of identifying damaged double glazing is by looking at the colour and condition of the seal. Over time, the seals on your double-glazed windows can become discoloured or worn. This can be a sign that the seals have started to deteriorate, and may need to be replaced in order to prevent further damage. This is usually easy to spot with the naked eye, so take a minute to check every so often.
Higher Energy Bills
Last but not least, rapidly increasing energy bills are often a sign that your windows are not functioning as required. We’re not just talking about the cost of living either! If you notice a sudden and drastic rise in your heating bills, poor insulation is likely to blame. As mentioned above, faulty or deteriorated double glazing allows air in and out, compromising the insulation of your home. If you notice a significant increase in your heating bill, it is worth checking your windows and seals.
Benefits Of Well-Maintained Double Glazing
Of course, infrequent maintenance and repairs are a very small price to pay for something as useful as double glazing. There’s a reason that these styles of windows have become popular in homes across the world. Double glazing is proven to reduce energy bills, heighten security and retain heat.
Below, we’ll run through a handful of double glazing’s brilliant qualities.
Insulation
It goes without saying that one of the main benefits of double glazing is improved insulation. The air or gas trapped between the two panes of glass acts as a barrier to heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer. This means that the interior temperature of your home or building is more stable and consistent, leading to reduced energy bills and increased comfort. Additionally, double glazing also reduces the amount of noise that enters the building, making it ideal for those living near busy roads or airports.
Security
Another benefit of double glazing is increased security. The two panes of glass are more difficult to break than a single pane, making it harder for intruders to gain entry to your home or building. This also helps to deter potential break-ins, as the extra layer of security may put off potential criminals. Unlike traditional single-paned windows, double glazing is virtually burglar-proof!
Environmentally Friendly
In addition to its security and insulation, double glazing is also a more environmentally friendly option compared to its single-glazed counterparts. By reducing the amount of heat that escapes from your home or building, you are using less energy, which helps to reduce your carbon footprint. Furthermore, the use of gas such as argon in the gap between the two panes of glass is a more sustainable option than traditional air-filled double glazing.
Misted Double Glazing Repairs & More: True Window & Glass Centre Ltd
Whether you’re a homeowner, commercial property manager or landlord, the benefits of well-maintained double glazing are countless. From increased security, greater insulation and a reduced carbon footprint to noise reduction and aesthetic appeal, you’re sure to reap the benefits.
That said, it is essential that your windows are kept in good condition, with repair work being carried out as and when required. Of course, it is far more environmentally friendly to repair a window rather than replace the whole thing. That’s where we come in!
Here at True Window & Glass Centre Ltd, we’re pleased to offer window repairs to clients across Woodhall Spa, Newark, Gainsborough and the surrounding areas. What’s more, we operate on a 24/7 repair schedule. Whether it is a simple repair or re-fitting, we’ve got you covered. In addition to our double glazing repair and installation work, we are able to fix and refit windows following burglaries and break-ins. In the unfortunate event of a window being smashed, we’ll aim to repair your window there and then. If this is not possible, we offer a full boarding-up service.
So, what are you waiting for? Get in touch with a member of our specialist team to discuss your needs. Whether it’s a simple repair or a full-property refit, we’re more than happy to help.
Call us on 01522 500892 or send an email to sales@twguk.co.uk.
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