Double-glazed windows are known for making your home more energy efficient, and they will dramatically reduce heat loss. However, when you discover condensation forming on the inside or outside of your windows, it can alert you to a variety of different issues.
Whether or not this condensation is a concern will depend on where and why the condensation is forming.
Here at Homeglaze, we are proud installers of double glazing in Essex. Over the years, we’ve worked on a variety of properties to install double-glazed windows, helping our clients to find the perfect match for their needs. We can handle every step of the installation process, from the initial consultation and measurement to final installation and aftercare.
Read on below as we discuss some of the reasons why your double-glazing will get condensation on the outside, and when you’re worrying unnecessarily or facing a serious issue.
How Does Condensation Form?
Condensation occurs when the pane of glass in your window is colder than the warm air in your home. The moisture in the air cools into a liquid water droplet, leading to a visible fog or water droplets on the glass.
Common causes of condensation are high-humidity activities such as cooking and showering. However, poor home ventilation and cold outdoor temperatures can also cause condensation.
Why Is It Bad?
Single glazing is more likely to have condensation form on it, because there is only one pane of glass separating the inside of your home from the outside temperatures.
However, it is still possible for condensation to form in double-glazed units, sometimes when they are old and have damaged or perished window seals.
Substantial amounts of condensation reduce the lifespan of your window and encourage the growth of mould, damaging the window frame.
However, as previously mentioned, small amounts of condensation do not necessarily mean your windows are faulty. It all depends on where the condensation is.
The Main Areas Where Condensation May Form
The main areas that you may find condensation forming are on the inside of the pane of your window, on the outside of your window pane and inside the ‘air gap’ between the two panes of glass.
Condensation On The Inside Pane
Internal condensation occurs due to excessive humidity in the room or inadequate air circulation. Low internal room temperature also lowers the temperature of your windows, making it easier for warm air to condense onto them.
Your kitchen and bathroom will have higher humidity and moisture levels, making condensation inevitable on colder surfaces in these areas.
If your property has recently undergone significant construction work, you may experience high levels of moisture in your home due to wet plaster, drying concrete and paint.
The best way to deal with excessive condensation on the inside pane of your window is to improve air circulation, reduce humidity and clear moisture from the room. In your bathroom, install an extractor fan or open the bathroom window when having a shower or bath, to remove high levels of moisture-rich air. A dehumidifier is another good way to alleviate high moisture levels and further reduce the condensation on your windows.
Condensation On The Outside Pane
This does not happen often; however, condensation on the outside pane of your double-glazed windows means that your units are working well and are thermally efficient. This is nothing to worry about.
This happens when the external air is warmer than the temperature of the glazing. Condensation is more likely to form at night or early in the morning when temperatures are low.
Condensation on the outside pane may limit your visibility until it clears. It’s a good sign that your windows are energy-efficient.
Condensation In The ‘Air Gap’ Between The Two Panes Of Glass
When condensation forms between the two panes of glass in your double-glazed window, a few potential reasons can cause this. Double-glazed windows will deteriorate over time, and eventually the seal around the two panes will degrade and crack, allowing moist air and condensation to enter. This is a common issue on older units.
When condensation is present for an extensive period, this will affect the ‘air gap’ seal or crack the UPVC frame, causing further issues.
The appearance of this condensation is annoying and undesirable, and it can also mean that heat is escaping from your home. In this situation, the likelihood is that the units have deteriorated past the point of working properly.
When Do You Need A Repair Or A Replacement?
If your uPVC windows are in good condition, it may be possible to replace the sealed glazed units.
However, before undertaking a repair, it’s best to consider whether the benefits of doing so and the expected life cycle of the window justify the expense involved.
Consulting an expert will help you make the best decision. They’ll be able to assess the window and its condition, and whether a replacement is the best solution in the long run, and provide better value for money.
Here at Homeglaze, we’re happy to offer free quotes on window replacements. With a wide range of experience, we can answer any questions you may have. Request a brochure today, or look through our range of double-glazed windows on our website to get inspired.