How Do I Know My Double Glazing Needs Replacing?

If your windows are older than 20 years, it’s time to start thinking about replacement windows.
When you have your double glazing installed by Majestic Designs, your chosen windows will give you many years of maintenance-free service. But your existing double glazing might be old, and, having already given you the best years of durability and efficiency, you could be asking yourself, “how do I know my double glazing needs replacing?”.
Things to look out for
So how do you know and what are the signs you should be looking out for? If you know how old your double glazing is and it’s older than around 20 years, then it’s probably time to start thinking about replacement windows anyway. That way you can ensure your home gets maximum energy-efficiency.
But if you’re not sure how old your double glazing is, there are a few signs that will tell you it could be time for replacements. Beyond general wear and tear, such as having difficulty in opening, closing, or locking your windows, or any visible damage in the frames, there are a few key things to look out for.
Water leaks
Any water coming into your home has the potential to cause structural damage as well as internal damp and mould. There are two possibilities how this could happen. Firstly, if water is coming in from the uPVC window frame, the window seals may have failed. Secondly, the specialist sealant used between the uPVC frame and the window opening may have come away leaving gaps.

If condensation appears inside of your windows, it could be a sign your double glazing is underperforming.
Condensation or window misting
Condensation on the outside of your windows is fine and nothing to worry about as it shows your home is keeping its natural warmth in. If condensation appears on the inside of your windows, it could be a sign your double glazing is underperforming.
You may also be experiencing unsightly window ‘misting’. This happens when the seals around your double glazed windows fail by splitting or cracking letting moisture in between the two panes. Not only is it impossible to get rid of, it’s another sign that your home’s double glazing is in urgent need of replacing.
Cracks or chips in the double glazing
Cracked or chipped glass is never good. While minor scuffs or scratches in your double glazed windows may be able to be polished out, cracks or chips are another sign urgent replacement is needed. Left alone, moisture will certainly get into the gas-filled gap between the panes resulting in misting or condensation (see above).
Draughts
Double glazing is purposely designed and manufactured to give you a tight-fitting finish for a draught-free and energy-efficient home. If you can feel any noticeable draughts around your window, it’s likely the sealant around the window opening has failed. If you have draughts coming in between the glass and the frame, the weather seals may well have worn, cracked, or split.
Need to replace your double glazing?
If you’re seeing – or feeling – any of these issues, then it’s a good time to talk to us here at Majestic Designs about replacing your double glazing. Designed and manufactured to your own specifications in our state of the art factories, our A+14 rated double glazing is expertly installed by our own experienced fitters to keep your home warm, efficient, and draught-free.
Get in touch with the Majestic Designs Customer Service team through our contact form or call us on 01934 741 294 today.