Misty Double Glazing - Is It Necessary to Replace Your Windows?
Condensation in your double-glazed windows can be ugly, but it doesn't always mean you have to replace your windows. Most of the time, all that is required is a new sealed unit.
Double glazing is filled with Argon gas between the two panes of glass which helps control the temperature and insulation within your home. If it is damaged, it can cause misting windows and a loss in performance.
Repair
Double glazing is a highly efficient window solution, but when the window seals deteriorate, it allows moisture to get inside and create condensation and mist. If this happens the windows won't perform as they should, and your home will lose heat, which results in higher heating costs. There are many options to fix the issue such as repair and replacement.
The efficiency of double-glazing is rooted in its design which has two glass panes separated by an efficient spacer bar that is thermally efficient. The spacer bar and the gas or air inside form an insulating layer that keeps warm air and wards off colder air. But, if this system fails and the window panes become misty, it is typically an indication that the glass is damaged or the seal is been damaged.
There are a variety of factors that can cause a seal to break, but the most common cause is wear and tear. When temperatures increase and fall, the seal expands or contracts and places pressure on it until it is broken. This issue occurs with older double-glazed windows, but it can also be caused by problems with installation or the use of excessive cleaning products.
If you notice that your double-glazed windows are misting and sagging, it's time to seek out help. This problem can be difficult to solve on your own, so it is important to hire an expert to replace or repair the unit that is sealed and restore its performance. Choose a contractor who has an excellent reputation and offers warranties for their work.
Double-glazed windows with mist typically indicate that the glass is damaged or the window frame is. It may not be practical or cost-effective to replace the entire double-glazed window. However, you can remove the damaged unit and replace it, which will stop the build-up of moisture.
There are numerous DIY ways to clean your double-glazed window, however the best solution is to replace the windows with new ones. This will allow the window to function again and eliminate the condensation by reintroducing the proper insulation and sealing.
Replacement
If you have misty double glazing that is only visible on the inside of your windows, it's likely to be the result of condensation. It is usually corrected by rewetting the panes. If the mist is seen both inside and outside your window, it is most likely that the seal between the two glass units has failed. In this case, it is necessary that the unit be replaced.
Depending on the terms of the window warranty, if the double glazing is still covered under warranty and was installed on your request the installer should be able fix the issue for you free of charge. Replacing the sealed glass units will eliminate the misting and condensation and will also restore their energy efficiency.
Replacing the sealed glass units in your home will not only make it draught free, but also warmer which will lower your heating bills. You may even be eligible for a grant or funding to help pay for the replacements.
The condensation outside of your windows is normal. It means that your double glazing system is operating properly and keeping moisture out of the home. If you see condensation on the inside of your windows, it's likely that your insulation isn't functioning properly and the seals that are between the glass panes is failing.
Moisture that is trapped between your windows will eventually corrode the frames and cause wood to decay. Exposure to excess moisture can cause health issues like allergies, respiratory infections and asthma. Repairing your double glazing or replaced as soon as you see the signs of condensation or misting is therefore essential for the long-term performance of your windows as well as the structural integrity of your home.
Contact GLRE for a free estimate and inspection if have misty windows in your home. We provide a wide range of double glazed doors and windows in the Hinckley, Leicester and Nuneaton areas, with a broad variety of energy-efficient options which will save you money on your energy bills and also reduce the carbon footprint of your home.
You can also make your own
Double glass that is misty is a common issue. It occurs when the vapour of water in the air is brought into contact with a cold surface, such as the glass in your window. It can become especially noticeable in winter when the temperature drops and the humidity increases. It could cause damage to the window frame and cause mildew and damp which is not only ugly but also harmful to your health.
Modern double glazing is constructed from two panes of glass that are sealed with an opening between them, and a spacer bar that has a desiccant inside it to absorb moisture. The spacer bar is designed to keep cold air out of your home and warm air inside, however it will wear down over time. This can be due to damage to the window frame, weather conditions, or harsh cleaning chemicals.
If the seal fails the window will not be able to hold heat and may begin to leak. This could make your home uncomfortable and can increase your heating costs. This could also impact the price of your home's resales, as buyers may be swayed by poor quality windows.
It's not as expensive as you think to replace your double-glazed windows. In fact, it can be as low as PS500 for a new unit. The new unit will have the proper insulation and sealing which will help lessen condensation issues.
You can also use a dehumidifying agent on your doors and windows to help prevent condensation and misting. These products are available in spray forms and are easily applied to your windows. The spray will soak in to the glass and spacer bar, which absorbs any moisture that is not needed. This is a cost-effective method to stop condensation from developing on your double-glazed windows. It is possible to do this several times per day. You can also place a towel soaked with vinegar between the glass panes to absorb moisture.
Warranty
Double glazing that is misty could be a sign of an unsound seal, allowing moisture to get in between the panes. This can cause a negative impact on the insulation of your home and can also cause mildew or mold. This issue can be avoided by getting your windows repaired as soon as possible. Depending on the conditions and age of your windows you may require replacing the window completely, but an expert can evaluate this and suggest the best option for you.
If you've had your windows installed within the past couple of years and are in warranty, you should consider calling the installers to inform them of the problem. The installers will usually be able to rectify the problem without cost to you. It's also worth ensuring that you're aware of the terms and conditions of your warranty to ensure that you can be sure that it will cover any repairs or replacements required.
The most common reason that double glazed windows to become cloudy is because the desiccant (usually silica beads) in the spacer bar between the two glass panes gets saturated and does not absorb moisture. This could be due to wear and tear, or simply because of changing temperatures, where one side of the window is hotter than the other and condensation develops between the glass.
There are many ways to eliminate condensation from double-glazed windows. One method is to place a cloth soaked with vinegar between the glass panes. But, this is only an interim solution and windows will eventually start to fog again, as the humidity in the room increases.
Another solution is to apply a dehumidifying solution that has been specially designed for double glazed windows and doors. These products come in the form of a spray and can be applied to both sides of the window. It is important to keep in mind that condensation is not just an inconvenience, but it could cause a variety of problems if left untreated, from water damage and mould growth to reduced efficiency in energy use and increased loss of heat.