Having to Replace Double Glazing is a Common Problem for Homeowners
Owning a home is a great asset and is something which most people aspire to over a period of time. However there are also many headaches and stresses attached to being a homeowner and you will find that the maintenance and upkeep require constant attention, time and money. One time you may be looking at replacement conservatory roofs or replacement porches and the next year you may wish to find replacement door panels or replace double glazing which has seen its day. Some of these maintenance or repair jobs are small and inexpensive but many will set you back a tidy amount, with the larger renovations even needing a loan from the bank. If your home has single paned windows, it would be worth your while to have them replaced with double glazing. The benefits of energy-efficient windows
Smaller energy bills: replacing all single-glazed windows with B-rated double glazing could save you around £170 per year on your energy bills.
A smaller carbon footprint: by using less fuel, you’ll generate less of the carbon dioxide that leads to global warming - typically, 680kg a year.
A more comfortable home: energy-efficient glazing reduces heat loss through windows and means fewer draughts and cold spots.
Peace and quiet: as well as keeping the heat in, energy efficient-windows insulate your home against outside noise.
Reduced condensation: energy-efficient glazing reduces condensation build-up on the inside of windows.
The costs and savings for energy-efficient glazing will be different for each home and each window, depending on the size, material and installer.
Before installing double glazing, check with your local planning office if you:
Live in a conservation area
Have an article 4 direction on your property, removing the right of permitted development
Have a listed building.
Most people will have double glazing fitted professionally and in England and Wales, the easiest way to make sure that your windows are fitted to the government’s building regulations standards is to choose an installer who is registered with one of the official Competent Person schemes. Installers registered with these schemes will give you a certificate when the job is finished which states that your new windows have been fitted in compliance with the regulations. If you have existing double glazing you will notice that over the years there is condensation building up and this shows that the window needs replacing. Replacement windows will be more airtight than your original frames, so condensation may build up in your house due to the reduced ventilation. If your house does not have much background ventilation, look for replacement windows with trickle vents incorporated into the frame to let in a small amount of controlled ventilation. I know of someone who had to recently replace double glazed unit Leeds and he managed to find a very reasonable quote. He said that the easiest thing was to have replacement door panels as there’s no need to remove the entire frame since the centre section can be removed and a new one put in.