Misty Double Glazing - Is It Necessary to Replace Your Windows?
Condensation in your double glazing is not aesthetically pleasing, but it doesn't necessarily mean that you need to replace your windows. Most of the time, all that is required is a replacement seal unit.
Double glazing is a layer of the two panes of glass with Argon gas. This helps to control temperature and provide insulation to your home. This could cause the misting of water and loss of performance when it is damaged.
Repair
Double glazing is a highly efficient window solution, but when the seals of your windows begin to degrade it allows moisture to get inside and create condensation and mist. If this occurs, the windows will not perform as they should, and your home will lose heat, which results in higher heating costs. Luckily, there are several solutions to the issue, including repair and replacement.
The effectiveness of double-glazing is rooted in its structure which has two glass panes separated by the use of a spacer bar that is efficient thermally. The spacer bar, along with the gas or air inside creates an insulating barrier that helps retain warm air and keep out colder air. When this setup fails and the window panes are blurred, the glass seal is typically damaged.
Many factors could cause the seal to break The most frequent reason is wear and tear. When temperatures change, the seal expands and expands and puts pressure on it until it eventually breaks. This issue occurs with older double-glazed windows however it could also be caused by problems with installation or excessive cleaning products.
If you notice that your double-glazed windows have started to mist then it's time to seek help. This issue isn't easy to fix on your own, so it is crucial to employ an expert to replace or repair the sealed unit and improve its performance. Choose a contractor with an excellent track record and who offers warranties on their work.
A double-glazed window that is misting is often a sign that the glass unit or window frame itself is damaged. While it may not be feasible or cost-effective to replace the entire window, it is possible to remove and replace the damaged part and remove the condensation and moisture build-up.
Although there are a variety of DIY hacks for clearing your double-glazed windows, the most effective solution is to replace the windows with new units. This will improve the functionality of windows and stop condensation by introducing 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 and can usually be fixed by re-wetting the panes. If the mist can be visible both inside and outside your window, it is likely that the seal between the two glass units has failed. In this instance, it is necessary to replace the unit.
Depending on the conditions of the window warranty, if your double glazing is still covered by warranty and was installed at your request, the installer should be able to rectify the issue at no cost. Replacing the sealed glass units will eliminate the misting and condensation and will also restore their energy efficiency.
In addition to making your home more draught-free replacing the sealed glass units will make your home warmer, reducing your heating costs. You could even qualify for a grant or funding to pay for replacements.
The condensation outside your windows is normal. It means that your double glazing system is operating effectively and keeping moisture out of the home. If you notice a cloud of condensation on the inside of your windows, it's likely that your insulation isn't working properly and the seals that are between the glass panes are failing.
The wood will begin to rot when moisture gets trapped between your windows. Excess moisture can also cause respiratory infections, allergies and asthma. The repair of your double glazing or replaced as soon as you see the signs of misting or condensation is essential for the long-term performance of your windows as well as the integrity of your property.
Contact GLRE for a no-cost quote and inspection if you have misty windows in your home. We provide a wide range of double-glazed doors and double glazing in the Hinckley, Leicester and Nuneaton areas, including a wide variety of energy-efficient options which will save you money on your electric bills and decrease the carbon footprint of your home.
You can also do it yourself.
Double glass that is misty is a very common problem. It occurs when water vapour from the air gets in contact with a cool surface like the glass in your window. It can be particularly apparent in winter when the temperature drops and the humidity increases. It can cause damage to the frame of your window and cause dampness and mildew, which can be both unsightly and unhealthful.
Modern double glazing is constructed out of two glass panes that are sealed with a gap in 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, but will wear down as time passes. This could be due to damage to the window frame, bad weather, or harsh cleaning chemicals.
If the seal breaks, your window won't be able retain heat and will start to leak. This can make you feel uncomfortable at home and add to your heating expenses. This can also have an impact on your home's resale price, because buyers might be put off by poor quality windows.
It's not as expensive as you think to replace your double-glazed windows. In reality, it could be as low as PS500 for a new window. A new unit will restore the proper insulation and seal, which will help reduce condensation problems.
You can also apply a dehumidifying product on your windows and doors to prevent condensation and misting. These products are available in spray form and can be easily applied to your windows. The spray will soak in to the glass and spacer bar, taking in any moisture that is not needed. This can be done multiple times throughout the day and is among the most cost-effective ways to prevent condensation from forming in your double-glazed windows. You can also place an unsoaked towel between the glass panes in order to soak up water.
Warranty
Double glazing that is misty can be a sign of a broken seal, allowing moisture to pass through the panes. This can impact the insulation properties of your home and also cause mildew or mould to develop. Repairing your windows early is the best method to avoid this issue from occurring. Depending on the conditions and age of your windows you may need to replace the entire window, however a professional can assess the situation and suggest the most appropriate option for you.
If you've had your windows replaced in the last few years and are still within warranty, it's worth calling the installers to inform them of the issue. The installers are usually able to rectify the problem for no cost. It's also important to ensure that you are aware of the conditions and terms of your warranty, so you know that it covers repairs or replacements needed.
Double-glazed windows may become cloudy when the desiccant inside the bars that separate the two glass panes is dissolved and unable to absorb moisture. This can be caused by wear and tear, or simply because of changing temperatures, where one side of the window is warmer than the other, and condensation forms between the glass.
There are misty glaze for removing condensation from double glazed windows, including placing an unsoaked towel in vinegar between the panes of glass for a night. However, this is an ineffective solution and the windows will eventually begin to mist again as the humidity in the room rises.
Another option is to use a dehumidifying product that is specifically 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. Keep in mind that condensation is more than an inconvenience. It can trigger many problems if not treated such as mould growth, water damage, reduced energy efficiency, and increased heat loss.