Five signs that it’s time to replace the glass in your windows
Replacing the glass in your windows may sound like a big job, but it can significantly reduce your energy consumption. When exactly is the right time to do this? Read this article to discover five signs that your glass is due for replacement.
- You still have single glazing.
Single glazing consists of a single pane of glass. Since 1 January 2020, the Flemish government has required double glazing in the living room, bathroom, kitchen and bedrooms of every home. This rule applies to all studios, flats, rental properties and single-family residences.
- Your double glazing is at least 20 years old.
Double glazing consists of two panes of glass. When double glazing is manufactured, air or inert gas is enclosed between the two glass panes. The window is made fully airtight in the process, which results in double glazing having a far higher insulation value than single glazing.
However, glass is a material that expands and shrinks as temperatures rise and drop. This may cause leaks over time; the older the glass, the higher the risk of a leak. A leak also reduces the insulation efficiency of a window. After 20 years, you should replace the glass to eliminate this risk. What’s more, in comparison to conventional double glazing, the insulating properties of modern glass types such as high-efficiency glass (HR++) and triple glazing are much more effective. This allows you to improve not only your energy consumption, but your comfort as well.
Want to know how old your double glazing is? Check any invoices or similar documentation to see when the windows were installed. You can also check the information on the aluminium spacer bar between the glass panes, which often states the date of production.
- Moisture has condensed between the glass panes or there’s a permanent white haze.
If your double glazing has a leak, moisture can seep into the space between the two glass panes. This moisture can condense, and if this goes on long enough, a permanent white haze may develop in the glass. That is the clearest sign that your glass is no longer insulating and needs to be replaced.
- Your energy costs are high.
High energy costs may be a sign of inadequate insulation in your home. Old or damaged glass lets more heat escape, which means you have to heat more in winter and cool more in summer. By replacing your glass with high-efficiency glass, you can significantly reduce your energy consumption and shrink your bill.
- The temperature indoors is uncomfortable.
If you can feel draughts, temperature fluctuations or noise pollution from outside, this could be caused by old or outdated glass. The insulation offered by modern glass not only provides a more stable indoor climate, it also gives you greater comfort and peace of mind at home.
If you spot one of these signs, the glass in your windows probably needs to be replaced! If you’re wondering how much that will cost you, open KBC Mobile and use the additional ‘Calculate your renovation’ service from Setle to work it out yourself using the most up-to-date prices. You can also use ‘Get a renovation quote’ to ask ‘Impact us today’ to find you a reliable and quality contractor to carry out the work.
This information is provided without obligation and for information purposes only. It applies exclusively to Flanders. KBC Bank NV does not provide any guarantee as to whether this information is up to date, accurate, correct, complete and/or suitable for a particular purpose. You remain fully responsible for any and all consequences of any use you make of it.
Loan type: Instalment loan. Subject to your credit application being approved by KBC Bank NV. Lender: KBC Bank NV, with registered office at Havenlaan 2, 1080 Brussels, Belgium, VAT BE 0462.920.226, RLP Brussels.