It’s every project owner’s dream.

That their glazing choice will increase a structure’s energy efficiency, improve the aesthetics, or even the value of your property.

And let’s be honest. Glazing is an expensive investment. You want the job done correctly and efficiently, but that’s not always the case.

We encounter avoidable losses when we hire incompetent people who end up doing a shoddy job.

So how do you tell if the glazing was installed properly?

There are a number of signs to watch out for. They include:

#1. Increased Utility Bills

It’s one of the least obvious signs.

Glass facades are great for increasing the influx of natural light within structures. With large surface areas of glass, direct sunlight penetrates into a building and this brings high levels of solar radiation. This can cause overheating problems when the wrong type of glass is used.

To curb the excessive heat, blinds or louvres may be installed. The downside is that such additions can damage the aesthetics of a building because they weren’t part of the original design.

Additionally, when blinds are extensively used, it reduces the amount of daylight getting indoors. As a result, artificial lighting can be used to supplement the lost daylight even on bright days.

The result?

Increased energy costs.

#2. Foggy Windows

This is a common problem in double glazed windows. Usually, mist forms between the panes. This obscures your view, poses a security risk and reduces the lifespan of the window by causing your home to lose heat.

Also, over time, moulds and mildew can develop on both the sill and window frame.

The problem?

The spores in the mould are not good for your health and can lead to breathing issues.

So what leads to foggy windows?

One of the main causes is improper installation. Poor alignment of the window panes and frames can result in quick deterioration of seals causing gaps that allow the ingress of air and water.

#3. Faulty Windows

Properly installed windows should open and close smoothly without sticking. But that’s not always the case.

Sometimes you may not notice your windows have a problem if they were installed during the cold season. This is because you’re not opening them frequently during this time.

But when summer comes knocking, you may be in for a rude shock when the windows become stuck whenever you attempt to open them. In another case, the windows may open, remain stuck and refuse to shut.

Similarly, another sign of faulty windows is squeaking or crackling noises during opening or closing. This can imply incorrect installation of hinges or that the window is too tight or loose. Also, it could be low quality frames that deform depending on temperature changes.

#4. Drafty Windows

If you can feel the effects of a passing breeze coming through your newly installed glazing. You should get worried.

It’s a sign that substandard products were used during windows installation. Alternatively, for double pane or triple pane windows, it could mean that poor workmanship led to seal damage.

As always, drafts are a nuisance as they can even cause excess humidity. The good news is that they are easily noticeable during winter. In other cases, when drafts are hard to notice, you can always identify leaks by having wet stains on your carpet.

In short, drafts make your house uncomfortable. Also, your HVAC system will work harder to heat or cool your house leading to increased utility bills.

#5. Discoloured Glass

You’ve probably seen discoloured glass in your travels. It could be in your office block or at the mall doing shopping. Sometimes, it’s a sign of poor glazing. And even if it takes some time to manifest, it's usually caused by windows letting in water.

So what’s the problem?

Water damage is every homeowner’s nightmare. First, a slight rainstorm is a concern. The rain trickles in and over time, it stains the walls beneath the glazing.

And finally...

#6. Misaligned Windows

Do your windows seem out of level?

Well, that’s a sign of poor glazing.

Likewise, there could be noticeable gaps. If there’s a gap between the frame and window sill or wall it could mean that measurements weren’t taken properly.

For instance, the window frame can be too large for the glass. This is extremely dangerous especially if there are kids, as there’s the risk of getting hurt if they play near the window. The poorly-fitted glass can fall down or shatter anytime.

Again, these gaps lead to loss of valuable heat in cold months, or loss of cool air indoors during summer. The result, higher utility bills. Also, rain can seep through the openings causing damage to the walls or the floor.

Finally, misaligned windows can compromise your security. The resulting gaps can allow burglars to break in easily hence endangering the occupants as well as your property.

And in case you’re wondering...

What’s The Way Forward?

Glazing is a necessary addition to your property. Your choice plays a significant role in determining the quality of life indoors.

Proper installation is a critical part of glazing and that’s why you should be cautious of the company handling the work. The firm should be competent and have a good reputation.

The sad part?

It’s unfortunate that some people overlook the need for professional help when it comes to glazing installation. It may be cheap working with inexperienced businesses, but it will certainly cost more in the long run.

And it doesn’t have to happen to you.

You don’t have to suffer from a poor glazing installation. A shoddy job can set you back thousands of dollars in repairs or even in annual energy costs.

That said, to avoid the above problems, it’s important that you hire professionals from the start. And the best part is that you don’t have to shell out a fortune to have your glazing installed correctly. Just take your time and do your homework.

That’s all that really matters.