It may be difficult to provide a solid prediction of how long a double-glazing installation will last, given how distinctive each installation is. How long double glazing remains functional may depend on the initial building quality, the damage the home sustains from the weather, how well the installation is maintained, and many other considerations.
What is the typical lifetime of a double-glazing installation?
The weather outside your house has a significant impact on the lifespan of your windows. But there are certain clear signs that your windows aren't performing as well as they should, and there are also ways to make them last longer.
The average lifespan of a double-glazed window is 20 years, although they may survive up to 50 years.
When double glazing was first introduced in the 1950s in the United States, the trend took off instantly due to the many benefits it provides for the home, including enhanced thermal efficiency, increased security, and greater noise reduction. By the 1980s, single glazing installed in the UK during World War II needed to be replaced, and double glazing entered the market to fill the void.
Here in Australia, we are still in the first wave of double glazing installations, something we are incredibly late to compared to the rest of the world. Luckily, companies like Ecovue have been providing double glazing to Australian homeowners with the desire to make the country more energy-efficient and to lower the energy prices of our homes.
What causes double glazing to deteriorate?
It is normal for double glazing components to deteriorate with time, just like any other part of the building. The insulating gas between the panes may start to leak, especially if there are tiny breaches close to the seals. The Centre for Sustainable Energy states that once around 25% of the gas has seeped out, the window's thermal effectiveness begins to decrease. It makes sense to consider replacing them with new windows at this time.
After leaks start to appear, condensation within the glass is also more prone to develop. This is a valid concern and a clear sign that the window needs to be repaired or replaced since it is no longer functioning properly. Condensation will start to occur within the window as the insulating gas leaks out, and warm air from outside the window fills the area. The heated air will then condense on the inside due to how cold the outside pane will become and the risk of significant damage to the rest of the installation.
For several reasons, double glazing may deteriorate. However, the major cause of damage is extreme weather. The temperature difference between the outer and inner panes stresses the insulating glass unit (IGU), and the closer they are together, the higher the risk that the window may break. Requesting a larger-than-normal interior gap is one way to ensure your installations last in homes that often suffer extreme weather. The window with a larger internal gap will hold up better against temperature differences.
Summary
The best double glazing systems should last for at least 20 years. You should consider the weather and temperature changes in your area since these are the external factors that will have the most impact on your window. Any trustworthy installer will be knowledgeable about the environmental elements impacting your property and able to advise you on the finest specifications to use to guarantee that your double-glazing installations endure as long as possible.
At Double Glazing on the Web, we work hard to share our expertise with our customers and clients. A superb product and a smart investment depend greatly on your knowledge of what you're buying.
If you're interested in obtaining a quote from us so you can start comparing the many double glazing installers in the industry, use our quick and easy online pricing calculator. You may also contact us directly using our online contact form if you have any specific questions.
