Understanding double glazing: Guarantees, lifespan, and maintenance tips

Double glazing is a hugely popular addition to any home, owing to their energy-efficiency and other benefits that directly improve a homeowner’s quality of life.

What is double glazing?

Double glazing is two glass panes separated by a small air gap (usually around 1cm thick). This gap slows down thermal transfer through a process called conduction, thus improving thermal efficiency.

What are the benefits of double glazing?

Energy efficient

The most important benefit of double-glazed windows is their energy efficiency. By manually controlling interior temperatures, you’ll be less inclined to crank up the heating during the winter months.

Noise Reduction

Builders, barking dogs and the neighbours mowing the lawn at 7am on Saturdays; three things you’ll no longer need to worry about with double-glazed windows.

Value-adder

If the time comes to sell your house, double-glazed windows are a massive benefit to your overall resale value.

Can I install my own double glazing?

It’s possible to install your own double glazing, and can be a popular choice for homeowners looking to save some cash, however, DIY double-glazing comes with its own unique set of challenges.

Legal

Most notably, since you’re unlikely to be recognised in a reputable competent person scheme (CPS), there will be several legal hoops to jump through when installing your own double-glazing: such as building regulation certification and inspections.

Quality

Poor craftsmanship when it comes to installing double glazing will have a serious knock-on effect in your home. Without investing in technically trained tradespeople, you run the risk of adding an extra draught to the air during winter, or having a continuous leak that causes a mould build-up.

Value

Save some cash now, lose a lot of cash later. If you’re planning to install your own double-glazing, it’s worth acknowledging that a poor job may affect the resale value of your home if you’re trying to sell one day.

Choosing an installer for your double glazing

If you opt to hire a professional to install your double glazing, it’s important to make the right decision. Home improvement projects can be costly, both in time, money and energy, so hiring a tradesperson you trust is crucial for your peace of mind.

All CPA-registered tradespeople have access to insurance-backed guarantees.

Insurance-backed guarantee

An insurance-backed guarantee means that you’re covered in the unlikely event your installation company ceases to trade.

This covers many reasons, including, but not limited to, liquidation, receivership, bankruptcy, death or state retirement of the CEO/Owner/Principal.

Deposit-protection scheme

Some CPA-registered tradespeople have access to a deposit protection scheme. This ensures the money is protected in the unlikely event that the installer ceases to trade. We recommend deposits be paid by credit card for further protection.

How to maximise the lifespan of your double-glazed windows

Cleaning & Maintenance

Like any part of your home, regularly inspecting and keeping your double glazing clean will boost longevity. Particularly as your windows are exposed to the elements, it’s wise to keep a lookout for condensation or mould.

Ensure that you’re periodically lubricating the seal of your double-glazed windows to maximise functionality.

Professional repairs

Bigger issues, such as droughts, difficulty opening or closing the double-glazed windows or condensation between the panes, are an indication that your windows need maintenance.

How long are double-glazed windows guaranteed for?

In the fenestration industry, tradespeople must meet a certain number of criteria when offering guarantees for double-glazing.

Most guarantees are up to 10 years, and your tradesperson should be recognised by a reputable CPS.

Final Thoughts on Double Glazing

A typical, professional double-glazing installation will last many years, however, you should expect their guarantee to typically last up to 10 years.

We recommend opting for a CPA-registered tradesperson to install or professionally repair your double glazing, to ensure you’re fully protected.