Double glazing can be a big investment for your home, but it is one that should pay off over time. It can help to drive down your energy bills while also making your home more pleasant and comfortable to be in.
As it is such a big investment, many homeowners want to know how long they can expect to wait before they will have to repair or replace their windows. There are many factors that determine how long your double glazing windows will last, and we will explore all of these in this guide.
How long should double glazing last?
There is no fixed timeline for how long double glazing will last. It could last from 10-50 years, depending on a wide range of factors. The quality of the windows, the quality of the installation and how well they are maintained will all impact how long your windows last.
A south-facing window will be subject to more sun exposure than a north-facing window, which could help it to last longer as the window seals are less likely to be damaged by UV exposure. These are just some of the factors that will determine how long your double glazing lasts and how long before you have to think about replacing it.
Why replace double glazing?
The most common reason to replace double glazing is to make your home more energy efficient and comfortable. It’s also possible that individuals simply want to update their home with a modern new look with metal frames. Or you might want to go in a more traditional direction with wooden window frames. There are many reasons you might want to update your double glazing, and not all of them are because the windows have failed.
Will my double glazing have a warranty?
Many double glazing companies will offer a warranty on the components in their double glazing. This includes things like seals, gaskets and lock mechanisms. It won’t cover you against things like breakage, as this is not a manufacturing fault. If your windows are fairly new and you are worried that they are failing already, you should check with the manufacturer to see if they offer a guarantee.
What can cause double glazing to fail?
There are many things that can fail with your double glazing. This includes:
- Seals can break down over time. The seals on your windows are not designed to last forever and can break down over time. They can also come loose in bad weather.
- Chemical cleaning solutions can accelerate the breakdown of seals around your windows. This can lead to misty windows that are difficult to see through.
- Manufacturing faults can cause mechanisms in the window to fail. This might mean that your windows are difficult to open or close. They might also fail to close tightly, leading to gaps that allow cold air in.
- Poor installation can lead to gaps in the sealant between the brickwork and the frame. If the window is measured incorrectly, this can also lead to larger gaps that are difficult to close with sealant.
- Extreme changes in temperature will also impact your window seals. As weather becomes more extreme, this could put greater pressure on double glazing and could mean that window seals need to be replaced more often.
- Neglect can also cause damage to windows. If you fail to act quickly on issues such as condensation, this can progress to the point where the entire frame needs to be replaced, not just the glazing.
- Older windows will also simply fail over time. The components can become worn down and break after around 20 years. While some people might notice their windows can last to around 50 years, in most cases, you’ll need to start thinking about replacing your windows after 20 years.
How does installation impact the life of double glazing?
The installation process has a huge impact on how long your double glazing lasts. The seals need to be placed correctly in order to ensure that they are effective at keeping moisture out. If your windows are not installed correctly, there is a good chance they will fail much sooner than if they are installed with best practice in mind. Even premium quality windows can fail much sooner if they are installed with poor technique.
Closing thoughts
You can expect your double glazing to last an average of 20 years, but some people may notice that this is much shorter or much longer. Poor installation can cause your windows to fail sooner. And correct maintenance and care can allow you to enjoy your windows for up to 50 years. However, some people will choose to replace their windows sooner as this can make their home appear more modern and also improve the energy efficiency of their home.
