If You've Just Purchased Misted Windows ... Now What?

How to Prevent Misted Windows The moisture that builds up in your double-glazed windows is a result of a variety of causes. The air in your home is typically more humid than the air outside, which can cause water to accumulate between the glass panes. This is a problem that could reduce the effectiveness of double glazing. Ignoring misty windows repair will only result in higher energy bills and damaged windows. Condensation on the outside This is perfectly normal. Window condensation on the outside is caused when glass that is cold comes into contact with humid, warm air. When the humid air comes into contact with cold surfaces such as window glass, it turns into water droplets. Exterior window condensation is most common in the morning, when temperatures are low and the sun hasn't heated the windows to evaporate the moisture. The good news is that the presence of condensation on your windows' exterior is a sign that your double glazing system is functioning correctly and is keeping heat from leaving your home. The bad news is that the excessive condensation from the outside of your windows can leak down and cause blistering, peeling paint or cracking on the frames of your windows. This can cause expensive damage and require replacement. You can do this by cleaning off the condensation from your windows using a squeegee or clean cloth. You might also consider a window coating that is hydrophobic. This is a clear substance that allows water to roll off windows instead of sticking. It can be purchased at many hardware stores and then applied according to the manufacturer's instructions. A dehumidifier is a great tool to manage excess humidity in your home. These appliances are available at most hardware stores as well as online retailers. They are extremely efficient at reducing the amount of humidity in your home. The humidity in your living spaces isn't only a problem, but can also be a fertile ground for mildew and mould. This can lead to numerous health issues and should be avoided by ensuring a moderate amount of moisture within your home. The moisture can cause wooden window frames to decay and lose their structural quality. The good part is that a damp examination conducted by a professional property inspector can identify the root of the issue and offer solutions that are cost effective. Condensation inside Sometimes, moisture can get trapped between the glass panes of your windows. This kind of condensation could be a problem, especially when it is seen in areas with high humidity levels of your home (kitchen or laundry, bathroom). Most likely, it is caused by the different temperatures between the outside and indoor air. Warmer indoor air cools window glass until it is below its dew point, which allows water molecules from the air to condense onto the cold surface. This creates visible droplets of water or fog to appear on the window. Fogging that occurs between the window panes is usually an indication of a failing seal in the triple- or double-paned windows. The insulation materials between the panes of windows, like argon, are supposed to stop heat from passing through the glass into the room. However as the seal gets weakened over time, moisture becomes allowed to pass through. The result is a visible fog or condensation in the middle of the window which makes it difficult to look out. The moisture that is trapped between windows is not a good thing as it can lead to mildew and mold that are both costly to fix and harmful to your health. If it is not addressed promptly, it can cause decay to wooden frames. The best way to avoid this is to circulate the air inside your home, especially in areas that are humid, such as the kitchen and bathroom. Open the interior doors, and turn on ceiling fan to draw cooler, dryer air into these areas. It is better to open the interior doors and turn on ceiling fans rather than keeping them shut. This will keep moisture and prevent it dissipating quickly. If you notice condensation on the inside of your windows even in the coldest weather or when the air is dry it could be the time to replace windows with double glazing which are made of a stronger insulating material. You can also add inert gasses like argon to your windows to decrease the chance of them reaching dew point. This is a cheap and easy solution that will make your old, inefficient windows much more energy efficient. Double glazing that isn't functioning properly The life expectancy of double glazing varies, depending on factors such as the quality of the product, its installation and maintenance. Like all appliances in the home it will eventually require to be replaced. One of the most obvious signs that your double-glazed windows require replacement is the presence of condensation on the window panes. This indicates that the seals are not functioning and the middle of your windows aren't airtight. This will not only decrease your energy efficiency however, it will also increase the amount of noise that can be heard throughout your home. There are many ways to eliminate condensation from double glazed windows, for instance, putting in towels soaked in vinegar or using a heat gun to warm the glass. These methods are not guaranteed and can damage the glass unit. If you have tried a few different methods but they have not worked it is recommended that you contact an experienced Glazier to repair or replace the window unit. It is important to address problems with your double-glazed windows when you spot them, particularly when they affect the performance of your doors or windows. If they are not addressed, these faults can cause mold and mildew to grow in your home, which can cause water leaks and reduce the insulation properties of your windows. It is also crucial to consult a professional when you are unable to open or close your windows due to stuck hinges or handles that are loose or broken locks, as they could pose a security risk to your family. A double glazed window is comprised of two glass panes, which are separated by an insulated space. Depending on the kind of double-glazed window, this space will be filled with either air or Argon gas to increase energy efficiency. The spaces are sealed using Hot-Melt sealant to ensure the double-glazed window will be air – and watertight. If this fails because of age, damage or incorrect installation, moisture will start to accumulate between the glass panes which can cause the glass to appear cloudy. Repairing Windows that has become smudged The seals on double-glazed windows can be worn out over time, even although they are extremely energy efficient. Moisture can build up in the space between the glass panes and cause the windows to become misty. This means that the windows lose their insulating properties, and you'll need to spend more money heating or cooling your home. There are ways to avoid the windows from becoming misty. It is essential to clean your windows regularly. Cleaning them regularly will help to get rid of any dirt and debris that may be stuck in the seals, preventing it from building up over time. Avoid drastic temperature changes as this can cause the window seals' to degrade and result in condensation. In most cases, the best way to repair the misty window is to replace the whole unit. This will improve the insulation properties of the windows and eliminate the condensation issue. It's not the most affordable alternative, but it's effective. You may be tempted to fix the problem yourself but this isn't always feasible and could cause damage to your windows. The buildup of moisture inside the frame could cause decay or damage, and is often difficult to remove. A professional can eliminate the excess moisture from your windows and clean the windows to make them look like new. Misted double glazing is a typical problem and it's usually caused by issues with the sealant that holds the window together. The problem can be caused by a variety of causes, including the age of the window or exposure to sunlight, damage by birds or animals and also the use of harsh chemical cleaners. Making sure you are maintaining your windows regularly and using non-abrasive cleans can lower the chance of your windows getting misted but if they do you should seek expert advice as soon as you can. The longer you wait, the more expensive it will be to repair.