Any good way to test double glazing panes ?

[Newc]

A relative has just bought a place with double glazing all round. Some of the panels are obviously kaput as they have condensation inside them. We will get those replaced, but obviously only want to be doing any work once.

All the windows are the same age, so we want to check all the panes. Is there any way to test definitively whether a panel is still OK, even if it isn't showing condensation at the moment ?

Thanks.

[B'stard Child]

Newc said:

A relative has just bought a place with double glazing all round. Some of the panels are obviously kaput as they have condensation inside them. We will get those replaced, but obviously only want to be doing any work once.

All the windows are the same age, so we want to check all the panes. Is there any way to test definitively whether a panel is still OK, even if it isn't showing condensation at the moment ?

Thanks.

look for mold inside the unit (normally at the base of the window) you can get that before you get regular condensation

Do they have a date stamp on the glass indicating age/std applicable at the time?

I think the accepted life of SUDG is 15-20 years - most of ours are way past that at 28 years old but I've only had to replace one unit.

[OutInTheShed]

If you can take the bottom beading off, check the sealed unit is not sat in a pool of water/slime/dirt etc.

Clean out the drain slots and keep the edges of the unit dry, you'll likely get another 5 years or more out of it.

[Newc]

Got it, thank you both for the advice.

[Mr Pointy]

Consider just changing all of the glazing units. At least they will all look the same then & they aren't particulalry expensive - you can buy them online.

[B'stard Child]

Mr Pointy said:

Consider just changing all of the glazing units. At least they will all look the same then & they aren't particulalry expensive - you can buy them online.

I agree but I'd want to be 100% sure the frames, hinges, closures and seals on the openings were in good condition before I threw a load of new SU glazing at it