As temperatures drop across the UK, homeowners often start noticing things around their property that went unnoticed during the warmer months. Cold rooms, draughts, condensation and windows that seem to let in more cold air can all become more obvious during winter.
But what is normal, and when should you consider getting your windows, doors or glazing checked?
Here are some of the most common questions UK homeowners ask during the colder months.
Why does my house feel colder in winter?
A home can feel cold for several reasons, including inadequate insulation, heating problems and heat escaping through windows, doors, walls or the roof.Older windows and doors can contribute to heat loss, particularly if they have damaged seals, gaps or glazing that is no longer performing as it should. If certain rooms consistently feel colder than others, it is worth checking for draughts around windows and external doors.
Why do my windows get condensation in winter?
Condensation is particularly common during colder weather. It occurs when warm, moist air meets a colder surface, such as the inside of a window.Some condensation on the room-facing side of the glass can be perfectly normal, particularly in kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms. Improving ventilation and reducing excess moisture can help.
However, condensation between the panes of double glazing is different. This can indicate that the sealed unit has failed and moisture has entered the space between the panes.
Is condensation between double-glazed panes a problem?
Yes, it can be a sign that the sealed unit has failed.Modern double glazing relies on sealed units containing insulating gas between the panes. If the seal breaks down, moisture can enter the unit, causing the glass to become misted or fogged.A failed sealed unit can affect the performance and appearance of the window. In many cases, it may be possible to replace the glass unit rather than the entire window frame.
HeatGuard Windows provides window and door repairs in Chesterfield, including replacement sealed units for common glazing problems.
How can I tell if my windows are draughty?
Draughts can sometimes be difficult to spot, but there are a few signs to look for.
You may feel a noticeable flow of cold air around the edges of a window, particularly on a windy day. Curtains moving when the window is closed, unusually cold areas around the frame or a noticeable temperature difference close to the glass can also indicate a problem.A window that does not close or seal correctly may need adjustment or repair. Older windows with deteriorating seals may require further investigation.
Do old windows need replacing?
Not necessarily. The age of a window alone does not mean that it needs to be replaced.
However, if your windows are becoming difficult to operate, regularly misted, draughty, damaged or generally performing poorly, replacement may be worth considering.HeatGuard offers a range of windows in Chesterfield, including uPVC, aluminium, timber, casement, sliding sash, bow and bay windows.
Replacing older windows can provide an opportunity to improve thermal performance, security and the appearance of your property at the same time.
Are triple glazed windows better in winter?
Triple glazing uses three panes of glass rather than two, creating an additional insulating layer between your home and the outside.
For homeowners replacing their windows, triple glazing in Chesterfield can be considered where improved thermal performance is a priority. Triple glazing can also help reduce outside noise and provide additional security benefits.
Whether it is the right choice for your property depends on your existing windows, the property itself and your priorities.
Can I improve my existing windows without replacing the frames?
In some cases, yes.
Triple28™ is a newer glazing technology designed to allow compatible existing 28mm double-glazing frames to be upgraded to triple glazing.
Rather than replacing the complete window, Triple28™ uses three panes within a 28mm profile. This can make it an interesting option for homeowners whose existing frames are still in good condition, but who want to improve the performance of their glazing.
HeatGuard proudly installs Triple28™ across Chesterfield and Derbyshire.
Why is my conservatory so cold in winter?
Conservatories can be particularly difficult to keep comfortable during extreme temperatures.
Large areas of glazing and the conservatory roof can mean that the room behaves differently from the rest of the house. Older conservatories with outdated glazing or roofing systems can be particularly cold during winter.
If your conservatory is rarely used during the winter months because it is too cold, improving the glazing or roof could help make the space more comfortable.
HeatGuard provides conservatories in Chesterfield and a range of conservatory roof solutions.
Can external doors make my house colder?
Yes. External doors are another potential source of draughts and heat loss.
If you can feel cold air around the edges of your front, back or patio door, the seals, frame or door itself may need attention. A door that does not close properly can also create security concerns.
HeatGuard supplies and installs uPVC, composite and bi-fold doors in Chesterfield and the surrounding areas, with double and triple glazing options available.
Should I repair or replace my windows?
It depends on the condition of the existing installation.
A faulty lock, hinge, seal or sealed glass unit may be repairable without replacing the complete window. However, if your windows are old, extensively damaged or consistently underperforming, replacement could be the more suitable long-term option.
HeatGuard can help homeowners identify the problem and determine whether a repair or replacement is appropriate.
Should I repair or replace my windows?
It depends on the condition of the existing installation.
A faulty lock, hinge, seal or sealed glass unit may be repairable without replacing the complete window. However, if your windows are old, extensively damaged or consistently underperforming, replacement could be the more suitable long-term option.
HeatGuard can help homeowners identify the problem and determine whether a repair or replacement is appropriate.