How Often Should Double-Glazed Windows Be Replaced?

Introduction to Replacing Double-Glazed Windows

Double-glazed windows are popular for a reason.When they are looked after properly, they keep your house cosy, boost your security, and can even increase the value of your home.However, how long your windows will last depends on various factors – and there are several tell-tale signs to help you understand if it is time for yours to be replaced.In this blog, we break down everything you need to know about replacing double-glazed windows.

Factors Affecting the Lifespan of Double-Glazed Windows

The lifespan of double-glazed windows can be affected by many different factors, including:

Quality of Materials Used

When you choose to install double-glazed windows, the quality of the frame is as important as the glass itself.The most popular materials to use are:– uPVC – Timber – AluminiumEach one is durable, but timber and aluminium require much more maintenance than uPVC double-glazed windows. You can find out more about the differences between uPVC and Wooden Windows in our recent blog post.The quality of material used for the seals, hinges, and locks is also important.Going for the cheapest quote will always lead to a more expensive replacement down the road. We only use top-of-the-range materials when we install double-glazed uPVC windows for our clients.

Installation Quality and Techniques

Proper installation by a trained professional will help your double-glazing last longer.Your windows need to be fitted to the opening without any gaps and be fully sealed to avoid air and water leakage.At Highland Homestyle, our friendly team has experience fitting double-glazed windows in homes of all shapes and sizes. Quality installation comes as a guarantee!

Maintenance and Care

It isn’t enough for your double-glazed windows to be expertly installed. You will need to care for them regularly to keep them in great condition.Keep your locks, hinges, and sliders lubricated so they don’t start to stick. You should also repair weatherstripping when needed.Damage often starts with dirt and grime. If you don’t regularly clean your windows, they will become more difficult to maintain and are more likely to get damaged.Cleaning your windows – particularly uPVC windows – isn’t complicated. In fact, it couldn’t be simpler!Check out our expert step-by-step guide on how to clean your uPVC windows.

Environmental Factors

You might not expect it, but the location of your house plays a huge role in how long your double-glazing lasts.Houses in coastal areas, for example, are exposed to more extreme weather and salty sea air, which will cause the conditions of your windows to deteriorate more quickly.Lots of heat and sunlight can also impact the seals and gaskets. You might think this isn’t a problem in Scotland, but you would be surprised!This issue can be dealt with at installation with a UV-resistant acrylic sealant, or protective glazing to reduce glare and block out the sun’s rays.

Window Usage

Finally, the more your windows are used, the more general wear and tear issues they will experience. This is because they will be exposed to changing temperatures and the hinges can be damaged by consistent opening and closing.

Recommended Frequency for Replacing Double-Glazed Windows

Double-glazing windows have an average lifespan of 20 years. How often your double-glazed windows need to be replaced will depend on the material they are constructed from.Double-glazed windows with timber frames can last up to 60 years but can be easily damaged through warping, chipping, and rotting.Double-glazed windows with aluminium frames can last up to 45 years, but their efficiency will drop as the years pass.Double-glazed windows with uPVC frames have a shorter lifespan, but with maintenance will last up to 35 years.Regardless of the material they’ve been constructed with, the lifespan of double-glazed windows can decrease to as little as 10 years if they aren’t regularly cleaned and maintained.

Signs That Indicate the Need for Double Glazing Replacement

Double-glazed windows are popular as they are a long-lasting investment. In fact, 77% of people surveyed by Which? reported they had no issues with their double-glazing.However, even the most durable windows will eventually start to show signs of aging.The best way to understand if your double glazing needs to be replaced is by taking a step back and studying your windows.Here are the key signs to look out for:

Visible Cracks or Chips

The first thing you will notice is any physical deterioration of the finish of your windows.Take note of any dents, chips, or cracks in the frames. These can be caused by lack of maintenance, extreme weather conditions, or wear and tear over time.Your window frames may also have rotted or warped, which can stop them from working effectively. This happens when your frames expand in hot temperatures, and then don’t go back to the size they once were when the weather gets cooler again.Cracks in the glass are always a concern. Not only will they reduce the efficiency of your windows, but they pose a security risk as your windows can be easily accessed from the outside.If a small component of your window is damaged, it doesn’t mean you need to install whole new windows. Hinges and handles, for example, can be replaced individually.

Difficulty in Operation

If your windows keep sticking, jamming, or you need to put a lot of force into opening or closing them, it is a sign that you may need to replace them. This is especially important if your locks are catching.Loose handles and hinges can also cause issues.

Increased Energy Bills

Another sign beyond the windows themselves is if you notice a spike in your energy bills.If your costs are increasing every month, it’s because your windows are no longer keeping in heat and you are spending more to keep your house at a comfortable temperature.

Water Leaks or Condensation

When the seals of your double-glazed windows begin to fail, the airtight barrier and insulation are compromised.Water and air can start to leak between your panes of glass. This leads to draughts and a build-up of condensation which can cause mold to grow in tricky places.A build-up of moisture can lead to wider issues of dampness in your home, and can also block light streaming in your windows.You can reduce moisture from settling by opening your windows to let the room air, and by resealing the seals once you notice them starting to peel, crack, or crumble.However, if you don’t get to them in time, a full replacement might be on the cards.

Deterioration in Appearance

Proper maintenance can help your double-glazed windows to stay in top condition. However, over time you may start to notice aesthetic problems, such as:– A discoloured frame – A peeling finish – Scratches or marks on the glassIf general cleaning or maintenance work isn’t fixing these problems, your windows may need to be replaced.

Increased Levels of Noise

As much as you like your neighbours, you probably don’t want to hear their conversations from the comfort of your own home!If more traffic noise or conversations from passersby are seeping into your house, it’s another sign of damage to your double-glazed windows.

Energy Efficiency Considerations

Double-glazed windows are one of the most energy-efficient options on the market.However, if your windows are several years old, they likely aren’t saving you as much money on your energy bills as the newer versions available.Look for any gaps in your frames, and check to see if the area around your window is a different temperature to the rest of the room. If so, heat is escaping outside your window – so more of your hard-earned money is being spent trying to heat your home.We only install uPVC double glazing with an A+ rating for energy efficiency. If your windows were installed before 2002, replacing them with our cutting-edge model could help you save £196.06 per year on your energy bills.Another of our recent clients is saving £700 per year after replacing their double-glazed windows. Just think about what you could spend that money on instead!

Choosing the Right Replacement Windows

Material Options

As we previously mentioned, there are three main materials used in the construction of double-glazed windows.uPVC windows are an increasingly popular option, thanks to their security, energy-efficiency, and durability. uPVC windows are also low-maintenance and easy to keep clean.Wooden windows are beloved for their classic appearance, and can last decades if they are looked after. However, they are also very high-maintenance, and difficult to repair once they are damaged.Aluminium windows are also robust, with multi-point locking and a sleek finish. However, they can be very expensive and again, difficult to repair once they become damaged.High-quality double-pane glass will also help to improve insulation, soundproof your home, and regulate the temperature of each room depending on the season.At Highland Homestyle, we install uPVC windows because they are a long-lasting, energy-efficient, and highly secure investment for your home.You can find out more about the benefits of uPVC windows here.

Quality of UPVC Frames:

Make sure you select the highest-quality uPVC frames when replacing your double-glazed windows.There are cheap uPVC frames available on the market, which can seem like a bargain at the time. However, they will discolour easily and can also warp in extreme temperatures.This impacts both the aesthetic and integrity of the windows, and will result in replacement down the line.

Optimal Window Design:

Finally, you need to select the right window design to maximise the energy efficiency and longevity of your investment.Our friendly team can install the following types of double-glazed windows:– Casement– Flush Casement – Tilt & Turn – Sliding Sash Each of these windows is available in a range of styles and colours so they can be perfectly matched to the aesthetic of your home.

Conclusion

Talk about a whistle-stop tour!We hope that this blog has answered your burning questions about double-glazed windows, and has given you clarity on whether yours need to be replaced or not.If your seals are creaky or the finish is chipping, a simple repair might be all you need. However, if your bills are increasing, your locks are compromised, or you’re noticing a chill in the air, a larger job might be required.We always recommend having your windows inspected by a professional before you make the decision to replace your double-glazed windows.Our friendly experts are always happy to pay a complimentary visit to your home and give you their professional advice on your best action.Get in touch to book your consultation.