Double glazing units in windows, doors and conservatories can typically last between 20 and 35 years before needing to be replaced. However, some factors can affect their lifespan.
The lifespan of double glazing can be prolonged with the right maintenance and care. However, it can also be shortened due to factors mostly out of our control.
It is essential to keep an eye out for the signs that your window may need to be replaced. Failing windows can cause problems such as heat loss, high energy bills and mould.
Read on to find out if your windows need to be replaced.
How Often Does Your Windows Need to be Replaced?
While modern double glazing can generally last between 20 and 35 years, their lifespan depends on a variety of factors.
If your home still has single glazed windows then you should consider upgrading to double glazed windows. These windows are not as energy efficient as modern double glazed windows
However, if your double glazed windows are reaching the 15+ year mark and you notice some of the signs below, they may need to be replaced.
Factors That Affect the Lifespan of Double Glazing
The main factors that affect the lifespan of double glazing include:
Location
The location of your house is one of the biggest factors that affects the lifespan of your double glazing.
For example, a double glazing unit near the ocean will generally have a shorter lifespan than another in the countryside. This is due to the quality of air in those areas.
The air near oceans is highly acidic, which decreases the lifespan of double glazing units and unfortunately, there is no way to avoid this.
Temperature
While the location of the house can affect the lifespan, the location of the unit itself can also affect it.
So, a north facing unit can last longer than a south facing one due to the south being significantly more exposed to the sun.
Therefore, two double glazed units in the same house can have different lifespans depending on their exposure to the sun, heat and rain.
Quality of Manufacture and Installation
The lifespan can also be affected by the quality of the material as well as the proficiency of the installer.
A high quality double glazing unit that is properly installed by a qualified professional can in general last longer.
Signs your double glazing needs replaced
There are several signs that your double glazing unit may need to be replaced such as:
Draught
If you can feel a draught coming from your windows, it is unfortunately a sign that your windows may need replacing.
Properly sealed windows keep the heat inside your home, and if there is a draft it means the heat inside your home is escaping.
With heat escaping from your home, money is being wasted trying to keep your home warm.
Increased Energy Bills
If your energy bills suddenly rise, then this may be a sign that there is an issue with your windows.
Again, if your window has a draft, then the heat inside your home is going to escape costing you more to heat your home.
As well as this, older windows won’t have the same insulation as newer, more modern double glazed windows. Therefore, they won’t be as energy efficient.
Condensation
Typically, there’s Silica gel in the unit’s spacer bar to absorb moisture, preventing fog and condensation between panes.
When the unit fails, the silica gel breaks, which may lead to the appearance of white dust. In addition, it leads the unit to develop moisture due to thermal pumping.
If you see condensation or white dust between the panes, your double glazing needs replacing.
Physical Damage
Wear and tear is normal and to be expected after some time. However, if you notice large cracks or parts starting to rot, then it is time to replace your windows.
This can be an alarming sign to replace your windows as soon as possible as there is a risk of more serious damage like water seepage and mould.
Inefficient Insulation
Double glazing provides efficient insulation against the cold and loud noise. So, if you can hear outside noise or feel cold drafts coming through your double glazed units, it may be time for them to be replaced.
Inefficient insulation is also the cause of increased energy bills so upgrading to new efficient double glazed windows will save you money on your energy bills.
Not able to open or shut
Double glazing units can sometimes get stiff or shut on their own. This is likely due to failed insulation.
Failed insulation means you will need to get your unit replaced likely due to a build up of moisture inside the unit which has stopped it from functioning.
Failure can also happen due to cheap installation materials. This is why you should invest in good quality material from the frames for your double glazed window units to avoid this problem.
Fading Furniture
Double glazing offers UV protection which protects your household furniture and carpet from losing colour.
However, if the unit fails, your home will no longer be protected from harmful UV rays.
This won’t be a problem you will spot quickly due to the length of time it takes for furniture and carpet to discolour due to UV exposure so keep an eye out for even small colour changes.
Upgrading Your Windows
If you are considering getting your windows replaced you can get a free no obligation quote here.
At Homeshield, our A+ double glazing windows offer the highest levels of insulation and security.
As well as this, we have various different colours and finishes to choose from to fit your taste and style.
You could also save up to £2,500 on our premium windows, as well as doors, when you scrap your old ones.
Browse our double glazed window styles here.
