How to spot when your windows need replacing: Key signs for Surrey homeowners
Main takeaways
- Condensation between panes of glass is the most obvious sign that window seals have failed and replacement is necessary
- Rising energy bills and draughts indicate your old windows are losing their thermal efficiency, allowing heat loss and cold air infiltration
- Difficulty opening or closing windows suggests frame warping or hardware failure that often requires full window replacement rather than repair
- Visible damage like cracks, rotting frames or broken handles compromises both security and insulation, making replacement the most cost-effective solution
- Modern windows offer significant benefits including lower energy bills, improved comfort and better security compared to older windows
Knowing when your windows need replacing can save South East homeowners hundreds of pounds on energy bills whilst improving comfort and security. Many homeowners struggle to determine whether their windows require simple repairs or complete replacement, often living with drafty windows and higher energy bills longer than necessary.
At Sherborne Windows, we’ve helped Surrey residents make informed decisions about their windows for over 30 years. Our experience across Hampshire, Surrey, Berkshire and South-West London has shown us the various factors that indicate when window replacement becomes essential. This guide will help you identify the key warning signs and understand the benefits of investing in replacement windows.
From failing window seals to compromised security, we’ll explore the most common indicators that it’s time to consider new windows for your home.
Common signs that your windows need replacing
Several clear indicators suggest your windows have reached the end of their lifespan. Recognising these signs early can prevent further damage to your home and help you avoid the steady increase in energy costs that comes with poorly performing windows.
Condensation between window panes
When moisture appears between double glazing panes, the window seals have failed completely. This condensation cannot be cleaned away as it sits within the sealed unit itself. Failed seals allow moisture infiltration, dramatically reducing the window’s insulation properties and creating an ideal environment for mould growth.
Simple repair option: Unfortunately, condensation between panes cannot be repaired – the entire glazed unit requires replacement. However, this doesn’t always mean replacing the entire window frame if it remains structurally sound.
Draughts and cold air infiltration
Feeling cold air around your windows, even when they’re closed, indicates various problems with seals, frames or hardware. Drafty windows force your heating system to work harder, leading to higher energy bills and reduced comfort throughout your home.
Simple repair option: Minor draught issues might be resolved with new weather seals or adjustments, but persistent problems usually require window replacement.
Difficulty opening or closing windows
Windows that stick, jam or require excessive force to operate suggest frame warping, hardware failure or structural issues. This functionality problem often worsens over time, potentially creating security risks and emergency exit concerns.
Simple repair option: Sometimes new hardware or minor adjustments can restore smooth operation, but warped frames typically require full replacement.
Rising energy bills
A steady increase in heating costs, despite similar usage patterns, often indicates your windows are losing their thermal efficiency. Old windows allow significant heat loss during winter and unwanted heat gain during summer, forcing your heating and cooling systems to work harder.
Visible damage and deterioration
Cracked panes of glass, rotting wooden frames, peeling paint or broken handles compromise both security and energy efficiency. These issues often indicate underlying structural problems that make replacement more cost-effective than extensive repairs.
Benefits of installing new windows
Investing in replacement windows delivers multiple advantages that improve your home’s comfort, security and running costs. Modern windows incorporate advanced technologies that far exceed the performance of older windows.
Improved thermal efficiency and lower energy bills
Energy efficiency refers to how well your windows prevent unwanted heat transfer. Modern windows feature advanced double glazing or triple glazing with specialised coatings that reflect heat back into your home during winter whilst blocking excessive heat during summer.
This improved insulation significantly reduces heat loss, meaning your heating system works less to maintain comfortable temperatures. Many Surrey homeowners see substantial reductions in their energy bills within the first year of installation, helping offset the big investment over time.
Protection from UV rays and improved air quality
Modern windows include low-emissivity coatings that filter harmful UV rays whilst allowing natural light to enter. This protection prevents furniture fading and reduces glare. Additionally, new windows seal more effectively, preventing outdoor pollutants from infiltrating your home and maintaining better indoor air quality.
Improved security of your home
Replacement windows incorporate modern locking mechanisms, toughened glass and reinforced frames that provide superior security compared to older windows. Our windows achieve Secured by Design accreditation, the UK police security initiative, giving you confidence in your home’s protection.
Better comfort throughout your home
New windows eliminate draughts and cold spots, creating more consistent temperatures throughout your property. This improved comfort means you’ll feel warmer in winter and cooler in summer, without relying heavily on heating or cooling appliances.
Windows from Sherborne
Our comprehensive window range includes uPVC, aluminium and timber materials in various styles to suit all Surrey property types. Each option offers excellent thermal performance whilst complementing your home’s architectural character.
Casement windows
Casement windows are the most popular choice for UK homeowners, featuring hinges on one side that allow the window to open outward. They provide excellent ventilation control and easy cleaning access whilst offering superior weather sealing when closed.
Sash windows
Traditional sash windows slide vertically within the frame, making them perfect for period properties and conservation areas. Modern versions incorporate advanced double glazing whilst maintaining the classic appearance that complements heritage properties.
Tilt and turn windows
These versatile windows offer dual functionality – they tilt inward from the top for secure ventilation or turn inward from the side for full opening. This design provides excellent security whilst allowing easy cleaning from inside your home.
Bay windows
Bay windows project outward from your home’s exterior wall, creating additional internal space whilst maximising natural light. They’re available in various configurations and materials to suit different architectural styles.
Sherborne’s window repair service
Sometimes repair rather than replacement offers the most cost-effective solution. Our comprehensive repair service addresses various window problems, with call-outs starting from £180. We provide honest assessments about whether repair or replacement offers better value.
Our repair service covers condensation issues, faulty seals, broken handles, adjustment problems and minor damage. However, we’ll always provide impartial advice about when replacement becomes more economical than ongoing repairs.
Frequently asked questions
When should you repair vs replace windows?
Repair works best for minor issues like broken handles, small seal problems or adjustment needs. However, replacement becomes necessary when window seals have failed completely, frames are warped, or energy efficiency has deteriorated significantly, as these problems typically worsen over time.
How long do modern windows typically last?
Quality uPVC windows typically last 20-25 years, whilst aluminium windows can last 30-40 years with proper maintenance. Timber windows offer the longest lifespan at 50+ years when regularly maintained, making them excellent long-term investments despite higher initial costs.
Do new windows really reduce energy bills?
Yes, modern energy-efficient windows can reduce heating costs by 15-25% compared to older single-glazed windows. The exact savings depend on your current windows’ condition, your home’s insulation and heating patterns, but most homeowners notice immediate improvements.
What’s the difference between double and triple glazing?
Double glazing features two panes of glass with an insulating gas-filled gap between them. Triple glazing adds a third pane, providing superior thermal performance and noise reduction. Triple glazing works particularly well in exposed locations or where maximum energy efficiency is priority.
Can you replace windows in conservation areas?
Yes, but planning permission may be required depending on your local authority’s requirements. We have extensive experience working with listed buildings and conservation areas, ensuring any replacement windows comply with local planning regulations whilst improving thermal performance.
Who are Sherborne?
Sherborne Windows has served Surrey homeowners since 1990, building our reputation on family values of honesty, integrity and courtesy. Over 30 years, we’ve become one of the most trusted names in home improvement across Hampshire, Surrey, Berkshire and South-West London.
We offer comprehensive window solutions including uPVC windows, aluminium windows and timber windows in casement, sash, tilt and turn, and bay configurations. Our product range also extends to doors, conservatories and orangeries, giving you plenty of options for your home improvement project.
Our accreditations include FENSA approval, Assure Certified Installer status and membership of various industry bodies, ensuring all work meets the highest standards. We’ve won multiple industry awards including Best Installer – Residential in 2020 and have been finalists for Best Installer of the Year multiple times.
Operating within a one-hour radius of our Farnborough headquarters, we provide genuinely local service with showrooms in Windlesham, Farnborough, Hartley Witney and Sunningdale. Contact us on 01252 370917 or email enquiries@sherbornewindows.co.uk to discuss your window requirements.
Whether you’re dealing with condensation problems, rising energy costs or simply want to improve your home’s appearance and security, our experienced team provides impartial advice to help you make the right decision for your Surrey home.
