In some areas, Nevada’s climate is characterized by hot and dry summers and snowy winters. As a Nevada homeowner, this poses a unique challenge if you want your home to remain cool in summer but warm in winter. Installing dual pane glass throughout your home can help you achieve this balance.

According to Glew Engineering, a standard dual pane window can ensure only 10% of the sun’s heat gets into your home on a hot day and helps your home retain 90% of its interior heat during the winter. It’s the perfect solution to ensure you’re comfortable all year round.

Although energy efficiency is a major benefit, dual pane glass also provides UV protection, reduces noise pollution, and can increase your home’s value.

However, if you want to continue enjoying these benefits, it’s important to know when it’s time for dual pane glass replacement. In this article, we review some of the signs your windows need replacing.

What Are Dual Pane Windows?

Dual pane windows have two panes of glass in a frame with a space between them. They are also commonly referred to as double pane, thermal pane, or insulated windows.

The Mechanics of Dual Pane Windows

The space between the panes traps air or in some dual pane windows is filled with argon gas to improve insulation. Some also include a moisture-absorbing gel to prevent condensation.

Benefits of Dual Pane Windows

Do you currently have single-pane windows? You may want to consider an upgrade. Some of the benefits of dual pane windows include:

  • Lower energy costs
  • Temperature stabilization
  • Noise reduction
  • Security
  • UV Protection

The variety of designs and styles available can beautify your home and contribute to increasing your property’s value. However, energy efficiency is more likely to be the reason for a boost in your home’s current value.

According to a Today’s Homeowner article, more homebuyers are expressing an interest in sustainability, and 30% think heating, cooling, windows, and doors are among the most important energy-efficient upgrades.

Signs Your Windows Need Replacing

You can only enjoy greater energy efficiency if your dual pane windows are functioning as they should. Damaged windows will not only increase your energy costs but can compromise your safety and result in further damage.

The following are window replacement warning signs you should not ignore:

  • Condensation or discoloration between panes
  • Fogging or condensation on the inside
  • Visible damage to glass
  • Drafts or temperature fluctuations
  • Increased energy bills
  • Spacer movement

Condensation or Discoloration Between Panes

Moisture or fog trapped between the glass panes of your window is an indication of a broken window seal. It may start as droplets near the corners of your window and spread across the panes over time, leading to discoloration. A company that specializes in dual pane window replacement can diagnose the problem and replace your windows.

Fogging or Condensation on the Inside

Condensation can also occur on the inner pane of your windows. If you’re noticing persistent cloudiness that you can’t wipe away, the moisture-absorbing gel in your window is at saturation point. It’s another sign your windows need replacing.

Visible Damage to Glass

Dual pane glass replacement is usually necessary when there is visible damage to your glass panes. Damage can include cracks, chips, or scratches on the glass surface. These can compromise the structural integrity and safety of your windows.

You should contact a residential window repair company at the first signs of damage, as they can worsen over time.

Drafts or Temperature Fluctuations

Do you feel drafts when you’re near any of your windows? Or maybe you’re noticing temperature variations in different areas of your home? Both can be signs of compromised insulation.

Ruptured glass due to impact damage is a common reason your insulation can become compromised. The chance of this occurring increases during a hailstorm, which is common in Nevada.

Once there’s a broken seal, the entire sealed unit is usually affected and you will need to replace both panes of glass.

Increased Energy Bills

Condensation, damage, or temperature fluctuations are all indications replacement may be necessary. A sudden increase in your heating and cooling costs is another. It’s usually a sign of reduced energy efficiency due to heat transfer through compromised insulation.

Contacting a glass window replacement company to fix any issues is a one-time cost that will be less than paying high energy bills month after month.

Spacer Movement

The spacer material in your dual pane window can move due to the natural expansion and contraction of the glass. Spacer movement can also occur due to UV exposure.

You’ll notice it migrating into the pane because it will eventually obstruct your view when you’re looking out your window. The movement is usually a sign of sealant failure which will trap air and moisture between the glass panes.

Is Seal Replacement Possible?

Are you wondering if replacing the window’s seal would be easier and more cost-effective? Seal replacement is possible, but it’s a specialized process requiring professional assistance. In some cases, it’s often more cost-effective to replace the entire insulated glass unit (IGU).

Benefits of Prompt Dual Pane Glass Replacement

Some top home efficiency tips include buying efficient appliances and insulating your home. You should also include prompt replacement of dual pane glass. Doing so will ensure you continue to enjoy:

  • Improved energy efficiency and lower utility bills
  • Enhanced indoor comfort year-round due to fewer drafts and condensation
  • Increased home value and aesthetic appeal with new clear, energy-efficient window glass

Regular maintenance checks can help you catch potential problems early and ensure your windows continue to perform effectively.

Enhance Aesthetic Appeal and Improve Efficiency

It’s important to check for signs of dual pane window failure regularly to catch potential issues before they become major problems. Condensation, damage, and temperature fluctuations are among them.

If you experience any of these, it’s time to consider dual pane glass replacement. Prompt replacement offers significant benefits in comfort, efficiency, and the overall aesthetic of your home.

The glass and window professionals at Delux Windows & Glass can guide you through the replacement process. Our decades of combined experience ensure we provide you with an effective solution for your window and glass needs. Contact us today, and we’ll provide a FREE on-site estimate!

Write a comment