How to know when your uPVC Windows need replacing: Our 8 Key signs

Many Northern Ireland residents in need of long-lasting, low-maintenance, and thermally efficient windows can take benefit from the advantages offered by uPVC windows. But uPVC windows, like many other things, eventually wear down. You can potentially extend the lifespan of your windows by being aware of the early warning signs. We will also discuss some indicators that your uPVC windows are beyond repair and need replaced. Not even the greatest windows will last forever. Are there any areas of cold near your windows? Misting or even more expensive energy costs? Alternatively, it could be because your windows are broken or just old. If your windows fit any of these descriptions, it could be time for a replacement. 

Sign 1. Having trouble opening and closing your windows 

In addition to being inconvenient, having trouble opening and shutting your windows poses a security risk. It indicates that the functionality of your windows isn’t as good as it may be. Your home’s energy costs will rise and energy efficiency may be reduced by up to 15% if you have draughts coming through your windows, says The Centre for Sustainable Energy.

A window that isn’t closing correctly makes it simpler for burglars to enter, endangering your family and possessions. In an emergency, your window can serve as an escape route. If you are unable to open your window properly, you may not be able to utilise it as an escape, which could put you and your family at risk. 

Sign 2. Brittle and fragile window frames 

Modern uPVC frames are more durable than outdated ones from the 1990s or earlier. Modern uPVC window frames are strong and long-lasting thanks to improved engineering and stronger materials, which makes them a wise investment for your house. 

Sign 3. Noise pollution 

If you live close to busy main roads or rail lines, modern windows can significantly improve your quality of life as they are designed to limit sound transfer. It’s a good sign that your windows need to be upgraded if you can hear outside noise clearly when your windows are closed. Modern pvc windows include more chambers within the profile, better sealing, and better glass alternatives to reduce outside noise leakage. Since there aren’t really any fixes for this issue, getting peace and quiet will probably necessitate getting new windows installed. View our selection of uPVC window styles. 

Sign 4. Your windows are leaking 

Windows are not meant to let in water; they are meant to let in light. If moisture penetrates the glass panes, your view could be obscured and distorted. It may result in condensation forming between the glass panes, which may give rise to mould that will only worsen over time. It also indicates the leakage of any insulating gas between the glass panes. The only way to fix this and restore your view will be to replace your windows. 

Not all condensation is harmful, although it can come from steam from cooking, your kettle, or your shower. Your windows are not enabling heat to travel to the interior pane if condensation is accumulating on the outside of them. This indicates your windows are effective and is fantastic news. 

Sign 5. Single glazed windows  

Single glazed windows may cause certain issues. There are problems with safety, security, and energy efficiency. By switching to double glazing (which we supply as standard), all these issues with single glazing may be resolved with ease.  

The problem of single-glazed windows is basically self-explanatory. Since single-glazing is less insulating than double- or triple-glazing, it might lead to problems with winter cold or summer heat. The u-value of single-glazed windows is typically greater than 5, but high-quality double glazing can have a value as low as 1, and triple glazing as low as 0.6. When you need to heat your home during colder months, poor insulation can lead to a sharp increase in energy expenses since the heat is being wasted. Find out more about window’s U-Values. 

Another possible problem with single-glazed windows is security, particularly if they are relatively old. Locking handles and multi-point locking systems make new windows significantly more secure. 

Sign 6. Frequently fogging or misting up  

The majority of glass firms guarantee the seals on glass units for ten years. Sealed units can last for more than thirty years, but they can also fail in the first year. If the sealed unites are defective, then this can cause them to mist up and fog.  Condensation from outside air entering the space between the two glass panes is what causes misting. This clearly isn’t the intended function for the double or triple glazed unit, but there are many reasons why this can happen, even when your uPVC windows are not old. 

Sign 7. Visible damp and mould  

Perhaps the most serious indication that your windows need to be replaced is the presence of dampness and mildew. Mould may seem harmless, although a little bothersome, but it can lead to major health issues. Additionally, damp can compromise your home’s structural integrity and be extremely difficult to completely eradicate. Improving your windows should be your first priority if you’ve detected mould and dampness in your home. This is for the sake of your family’s health as well as the health of anyone else who may live there or frequently visit. 

Sign 8. Weak and rusty hardware  

Your window’s hardware, including its locks, handles, and hinges, is an essential component that must be maintained in excellent shape for it to function correctly. In particular, locks and hinges are crucial for maintaining the security of your home and discouraging unwanted intruders. Broken or rusted hardware can attract thieves and other nefarious characters. Older handles break frequently, but they are easily replaceable. The majority of windows systems installed after the 1980s have standard holes for installing new handles, thus replacing them is typically an easy do-it-yourself project. Due to subpar push-to-lock mechanisms in some earlier handles, windows could be accidentally locked.  

If you think your uPVC windows need replacing, then its time is act fast and upgrade them. At Total Home NI, we offer a wide range of uPVC windows, which come with double glazing, as standard. All our uPVC windows can also be upgraded to triple glazing, acoustic, decorative or frosted glass, so contact us today and choose from 30 colourways.