How Long Does Double Glazing Last?

We all hear about double glazed windows, but do you know the difference between a standard window and one that’s double glazed? In case you don’t, double glazing is a type of window construction that features not one, but two layers of glass. What makes double glazed windows different is the two layers of glass separated by a space filled with air or an insulating gas. Said space improves the thermal insulation of the window whilst reducing noise, improving a properties energy efficiency by keeping heat in during the winter and out during the summer months and overall comfort.

In our blog, we explain how long should double glazed windows last and what to do when your double glazing mists.

How Long Should Double Glazing Last? 

When it comes to double glazing, a question on many people’s lips is “how long should double glazing last?” It’s important to note that the longevity of double glazing can vary on factors such as the quality of materials used, installation, maintenance and weather conditions. So, whilst it’s not possible to confirm exactly how long your double glazing will last before misting, you can expect it to last for a minimum of 20 years. However, double glazing is expected to have a total lifespan between 25-30 years on average.

What Impacts How Long Double Glazing Will Last?

As aforementioned, there are several factors that impacts the lifespan of double glazing. Like all home improvement measures, some of these factors you can control whilst others you can’t. For example, extreme weather conditions such as heavy rain or strong winds are not in your control, but regular maintenance is. Arranging regularly cleaning and maintenance of your double glazing can help to increase its longevity, ensuring optimal performance.

The quality of materials and installation quality is also crucial to prevents gaps and leaks that will impact the effectiveness of your double glazing. At Montrose Glass, we use only the best double glazing replacement glass that’s ordered in the exact size to ensure its fitted securely so can continue enjoying the benefits of double glazing for years to come.

How to Tell When It’s Time to Replace Your Double Glazing

Now you understand how long should double glazed windows last, the next factor to consider is how to tell when it’s time to replace your double glazing. Condensation and draughts are just two telltale signs your double glazing could benefit from being replaced, ensuring your property remains secure and energy efficient, particularly during the winter months when we rely on double glazing to keep warmth in.

Depending on how long you’ve had your double glazed windows, you may also begin to notice visible damage such as cracks or chips in the glass. Whilst this isn’t an immediate cause for concern, it’s important to recognise how this can reduce insulation effectiveness, increase energy bills and eventually become a safety hazard.

At the same time, you should also look out for visible mould or mildew. Mould or mildew that occurs around the area of the window may be a sign of a moisture defect such as unsupported seals or deteriorating insulation. Not only does this pose a risk to your health, but may also cause further damage to your property, indicating an urgent misted double glazing repair.

Misted Double Glazing Repairs

In some cases, your double glazed windows may not require full replacement and can instead be repaired to prolong the life of the existing glass. Regardless, if you notice any of the signs mentioned in this blog post, we recommend getting in touch with a professional at your earliest convenience to assess the condition of your double glazing and determine the next step.

At Montrose Glass, we take pride in offering 1 hour emergency repairs by fully qualitied and experienced experts. Regardless of whether you believe your double glazing needs to be repaired or replaced entirely, we can arrange a visit with no call-out fee to effectively resolve the issue. Request a call-back from one of our experts, today!