What Causes Condensation on Double-Glazed Windows?

What Causes Condensation on Double-Glazed Windows?

Here at KJM, we specialise in thermally efficient home improvements built to last, with high-quality double and triple-glazing installations for every project. New glass is the perfect starting point if you’re looking for a new upgrade for your home that doubles as a green investment that looks towards the future. With rising energy bills and thermal efficiency more critical than ever, homeowners are naturally left with questions about what to expect from their double and triple glazing.

One such occurrence is condensation. Condensation build-up can be frustrating for any homeowner and contribute to mould and dampness within the home. There are a couple of common culprits that cause this annoyance. This article will explore why and how best to tackle condensation. 

Condensation on Your Windows 

Have you ever woken up on a chilly morning to find that your double-glazed windows are fogged? This is known as condensation, mist or fogging. This can be frustrating. But have you ever wondered why this happens?

Double-glazed windows are designed to provide insulation by separating two glass panes with air or gas-filled space. This gap helps to reduce heat loss from the inside of the house to the outside- reducing heat loss through the glass panes and the gap between them. However, this clever design does have some drawbacks, as it can also make your windows, doors or conservatory prone to condensation.

Condensation occurs when warm, moist air comes into contact with a cold surface. The moisture in the air condenses into water droplets, causing the surface to become wet. This is the same principle behind why your cold drink causes water droplets to form outside a glass on a hot day- a simplistic way to explain what happens to your windows. In the case of double-glazed windows, the air or gas-filled space between the two panes of glass can act as a barrier to heat transfer. This means that the inner pane of glass can be significantly warmer than the outer pane, particularly in cold weather when the temperature outside is lowered. These issues create the perfect conditions that condensation needs.

Tackling Condensation In Your Home

What causes the warm, moist air to form in the first place? Several factors can contribute to this, including cooking, bathing, and breathing. These activities release moisture into the air, increasing the humidity levels in your home. This can help form condensation on your windows, doors and conservatories, which can be irritating.

You can take a few steps to reduce condensation on your double-glazed windows. Firstly, make sure that your home is adequately ventilated. This means opening windows and doors regularly to allow fresh air to circulate and reduce humidity levels. This is a great way to refresh your home, control the temperature, and let the smell of cooking, cleaning or other similar activities leave your home. 

However, if it’s cold and damp outside, you might not want to open your windows. This is understandable. In these cases, other things can help. Another solution is to use a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture from the air. This can be particularly useful in rooms that generate a lot of moisture, such as the kitchen or bathroom. For this option, you don’t need to open your windows and doors, making it perfect for those cold winter days.

Window Replacement Options

Double glazing has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its insulation properties, which can help to reduce heat loss and increase thermal insulation. However, double glazing can become less effective over time if it develops condensation. This can be a sign that your double-glazing installations need replacing.

In the case of older double glazing, condensation can happen when the seals between the two panes of glass fail- allowing moisture to enter the gap between the panes. This can lead to a build-up of condensation, which can cause damage to the windows and reduce their insulation properties. If you notice condensation on your double-glazed windows, taking action as soon as possible is essential to prevent further damage. Unfortunately, once the seals have failed, the only solution is to replace the windows- so keep this in mind.

Replacing double glazing can be costly and time-consuming, but it’s worthwhile. Not only will it improve the insulation properties of your home, but it will also improve the appearance and value of your property. Choosing a reputable company with experience installing double and triple-glazed profiles is essential when replacing double-glazing. Here at KJM, we can advise you on the best type of windows for your property and ensure the installation is meticulously carried out. The last thing you’d want is for this issue to happen again.

Get Started Today With KJM.

Replacing glazing when it has condensation is an important step in maintaining the insulation properties of your home. While it can be a pain to make the decision, it will help improve your property’s performance. If you notice condensation on your double-glazed windows, seek advice from KJM, a reputable double-glazing company covering Hampshire and surrounding counties.

Contact us on 01264 359355, and we’d be happy to discuss the best services for your property. With our non-commissioned sales team and expert advisors, we can help make your property thermally efficient and secure. Make a start with KJM today.