Double glazed windows made easy

21st October 2021 - By Jason Clemmit

Double glazed windows made easy

When it comes to double glazing, you want to be sure that you are getting the right fit for your property or project. With this in mind, we have compiled some frequently asked questions that we get when it comes to double glazing and windows.

How do I know when to replace my double glazing?

There tends to be four tell-tale signs that it’s time to replace your double glazing:

1. If you’ve noticed a build-up of condensation between the panes of glass in your windows, this could mean that the seals have broken, which allows moisture into your home. It makes your glazing less effective and your energy bills are likely to increase, because once a seal breaks any insulating gas can escape.
2. Having trouble opening or closing your windows? If your double glazing is difficult to operate, this could be because of an installation issue, but older windows that are rusting or rotting can also be tricky to use. If you can’t close or lock your windows properly, this could also impact the safety of your home.
3. If you live on a busy street and you can hear a lot of traffic and noise from outside, your windows might not be sealed correctly. Your double glazing should have some impact on noise reduction when installed in the right way.
4. If you can feel draughts or cold spots in your house, this is another sign that the seals in your window have failed, leading to a colder, less efficient home, which is likely to increase your heating bills!

What material should I choose for my windows?

When choosing the material type for your double glazing, each has their own benefits. Ultimately it comes down to your personal preference and the needs of your property.

PVCu is probably the most popular window material, as it’s well known for its durability, high thermal performance and low-maintenance qualities. It’s also a very cost-effective option.

Aluminium is one of the most strong yet stylish materials and is perfect for long-lasting window frames. It doesn’t rot or rust, is very easy to keep clean and makes a stunning statement with slimmer sightlines.

Timber windows are a popular choice for period properties trying to replicate traditional style, and modern timber frames offer great energy efficiency and security.

What type of windows do I choose?

If you’re thinking of replacing the double glazing in your home, it’s best to identify what kind of windows are currently in your house.

The material of your window is simple to spot, as you can just examine the interior or exterior frame.

If you need to know what type of glass your windows have, you will be able to tell by how many panes of glass are in your windows. It can range from a single pane to triple panes (called triple glazing).

Identifying the opening of your window is straight-forward too. The most common types of window opening are side hung and top hung. Side hung windows open outwards with hinges on the left or right and top hung windows swing open using hinges at the top of the window frame.

In some circumstances you may have a tilt & turn window, which tilts open at the top for a secure night vent option and can also open fully to the left or right. You may even have a fully reversible frame, which opens into the property and turns all the way around for easy cleaning, but these usually only feature on high-rise properties.

How do double glazed windows help reduce heat loss?

Having double glazing in your home can reduce heating and energy bills and increase the value of your home, as well as reducing your carbon footprint. Double glazing reduces heat loss from your home by adding extra insulation to your property. The less heat you lose from your home, whether that be from cold spots or draughts, the more you can potentially save on your heating bills.

How secure are your windows?

Double glazing can increase the security of your home in a number of ways. All Certified Competent installers can offer impressive security standards on double glazing, to give you complete peace of mind that your home is secure.

You can also check for security standard such as PAS 24:2016 and Secured by Design. PAS 24:2016 is a test that’s carried out by an independent, third-party UKAS accredited testing body to ensure compliance with the enhanced security performance requirements for door sets and windows in the UK.

Secured by Design (SBD) is the police security initiative that helps to improve the security of homes. SBD has a product-based accreditation scheme and recognises products that are better designed to reduce crime.

What are window energy ratings?

Window energy rating schemes are based on an A-G scale. The scheme is similar to the ones you see on fridges and washing machines, that have a traffic light system on them.

An ‘A’ rating indicates a good level of energy efficiency, whilst G is the lowest rating. Most installers offer double glazed windows with at least a ‘C’ rating, which is the lowest rating required to pass Part L of the Building Regulations.

Find double glazing near you with Certified Competent

Now you know what double glazing is and how to tell if you need replacement double glazing, all that’s left is to find the right installer for you. Use our find a trader search to select a quality double glazing installer near you. Read through reviews left by homeowners and get in touch with them to start your new double glazing project today.