Replacing windows

[PenCreed]

We've got an 80s built extension, and the double glazing on it is needs replacing, as there is fogging between the panes. Can anyone suggest if we'd be better to replace the whole window, or just the glass? The ventilation in the upstairs room isn't great, so we wondered if replacing the window with one with trickle vents would improve it. We're trying to work out what the best option is so we have a rough idea what we're asking for when we get quotes!

Also, if we're better to replace the whole window, just how much mess will that create? Will there be loads of follow up work to make good the area round the window? One of the windows is in the kitchen and has a tiled windowsill so would be more of a pain to have to have re-done afterwards.

We have some 80s double glazed windows to replace and at one stage the DG bloke suggested new seals. But then he said that new units have a bigger gap between glass. So I decided we'd replace them the frames are a bit shabby too. Not had them done yet but have had some single glazing replaced - not that much mess and they were careful removing the old windows & doors.
I'm sure your tiles would be fine, but when you get some quotes ask them.
We went with a local firm that had been recommended. I made the mistake of asking a big firm for a quote when they were replacing next doors windows. I wish I hadn't. They only stopped contacting when I threatened to report them as nuisance calls.

you can reglaze them about about a tenth the cost of new windows, and a hundredth the mess and disruption.

In your town there is sure to be at least one local specialist in reglazing windows. It is a constant maintenance job. I get mine done for £50 to £100 depending on size, and patio-door sized for two or three hundred. The panes are made to order in whatever size and thickness your windows require.

Of course, if you ask a company that sells replacement windows, they will give you a different story. Somebody's got to pay for the company helicopter and the MD's yacht.

btw if your bathroom window has no trickle vents, a window fitter can add them. It is done by machining a slot and inserting a weatherproof plastic cover.

If your bathroom is steamy, have you got an extractor fan that works?

Thanks all - that makes a lot of sense! We were thinking of finding a local firm, but DH grew up in new builds and I grew up in a Victorian house with single glazing, so old double glazing isn't something we know anything about.

Retro-fitting trickle vents to the bedroom sounds like a good idea, the ventilation in that bit of the house isn't as good generally. The bathroom has a decent extractor fan, but the bedroom just doesn't seem to get as much air movement as the rest of the house does, and in winter keeping the windows open isn't always practical.

mine was recommended by the window cleaner

but if you ask around or look on your local residents facebook you are sure to find people who've had it done. They tend to also adjust and repair plastic doors, window hinges and catches, and patio doors.

Advertising websites where traders pay to be listed, like check-a-rate, are not recommendation sitess.

Yep we’ve got a couple of local guys who specialise in fogged up double glazing and replacing the glass or sorting locks and latches. We’ve used them, they don’t have much skin in the game so tend to be pretty honest. Its not a messy job.

Timber or UPVC?

Thanks folks. Luckily we've got some good local sites and when I searched them someone had asked for recommendations for the same work, so we've got a couple of companies to try!