Double Glazing Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re thinking of purchasing double glazing, it is always useful to know something about the product. Here are some FAQ’s on double glazing together with some unbiased answers.
Q. Do I have to clean my replacement windows as I have been told they are maintenance free?
A. Providing the uPVC used to make the double glazing profile is of good quality e.g. Rehau, Veka, Synseal, or Spectus you should not encounter any discolouration. Any reputable company who installs double glazing will warrant against this happening.
Q. I am thinking of replacing a window to the back of my house which is south facing with a double glazed patio door. Will this make the room hot if and so will I need some form of shading?
A. Yes this will make the room a bit warmer on a sunny day, I would suggest that you have window blinds fitted that will protect your furniture and keep the room cooler. Why not install window blinds and plantation shutters as a start.
Q. The rear of my house and garden is south facing, and is very bright and hot in the summer. Could you advise what would be best, a garden umbrella or a patio awning?
A. I would suggest a patio awning as these are ideal to protect you from the sun and cover a larger area. The other added attraction is that they can be used at night for entertaining as they can be supplied with lighting and when it’s time to go to bed just press a button and your patio awning will fold up ready for tomorrow.
Q. I am considering having double glazing fitted to my house. I live near a busy road that runs down the side of my property. Will this help to soundproof my property?
A. Yes, by fitting double glazing to your property will certainly improve the sound proofing. I would suggest that you have double glazing sealed units filled with argon gas with a gap of a minimum of 25 mm.
Q. I am thinking of having double glazed sash windows installed in an old terraced property, which currently has sash box windows. Having received three quotes, I have also received three views on whether the whole sash box should be removed or the new units simply fitted within the existing sash box, leaving the internal wood in place. One double glazing window company said, the whole box sash should be completely removed to ensure a good job, the second said there was no need as the wood was in good condition, the third said it doesn't matter, but fitting within the sash box will be cheaper. Please could you tell me who’s right?
A. When replacing box sash windows both methods can be used, some companies believe leaving the original 'box' in place and fitting the new double glazed sash window within the existing box sash should be perfectly acceptable providing the timber is in good condition plus it will have all the original moulding. Complete replacement is best if the old timber is rotten.
Q. I live in a conservation area, and I am considering having uPVC double glazed sash windows fitted to replace my old metal windows. Would there be any restrictions?
A. Yes, there could be restrictions since you live in a conservation area or a listed building. It is best to discuss this with the conservation officer or your local planning office. To find out more, please consult with your local authority as the criteria may differ from one area to another.
Q. We suffer from bad condensation; will double glazing help prevent this?
A. Not necessarily. Condensation is a very common occurrence. It can be very unpleasant because it stains the windows and can leave pools of water on the window sills. When water vapour from the air comes into contact with cold surfaces, the vapour condenses on the cooler surface of the glass forming a foggy effect.
However, by replacing your old windows with double glazing, this may reduce that because the sealed unit will be a warm surface which can only help. While this condensation is annoying, it also indicates excessive humidity inside the room which should be reduced. Tackle the problem of high humidity first which could be as simple as adding ventilation e.g. extractor fans in the kitchen and bathrooms to remove excessive humidity.
