If you are currently in the market for new double glazing, it could be that you are looking to replace your old timber or metal single glazed windows that are suffering from condensation. You’ll also be looking of course to make energy savings in your home as well as adding extra security to your windows.
Many in the double glazing sector will tell you that your new windows will do away with condensation. This is actually not true as there are many reasons why condensation will appear in the home. It is true that a well insulated window will reduce it but it can never be eliminated. What you can do is take steps to reduce it as well.
What causes condensation on windows?
Your new windows and doors have excellent window energy ratings and can help reduce moisture in the home.
Inadequate ventilation is one of the major reasons for condensation in the home. But it’s important to know the differences between condensation and a broken down sealed unit.
If you already have old double glazing and see the window misted up between the panes of glass this means that the glass in your window has failed and needs replacement. This is not condensation on the external surface.
Causes of condensation on double glazed windows
The way we use our homes has a great bearing on condensation, but we also generate water vapour ourselves. At night when we sleep we create moisture in our bedrooms. In flats and apartments when we dry our washing or cook meals we also generate water vapour. All of this will have a bearing on condensation in the home. It is also well known that recently constructed homes will take quite a while to fully dry out – again this can be a cause.
What about trickle ventilators in windows?
We recommend the use of trickle vents in your windows or other form of ventilation in a room such as a ventilated brick. Current Building Regulations do require new windows in new build extensions or homes be fitted with trickle ventilators. Many people choose to keep these shut believing they cause draughts and make a room cold.
The reality is that trickle vents can go a long way to helping you reduce condensation in the home. This is what they’re designed to do so do leave them open at all times. They work in bringing clean air into your room and reducing moisture.
What about condensation on the outside of your windows?
If you have recently had new double glazing fitted, you may notice at varying times of the year condensation on the outside of your windows!. This is simply the latest specification glass doing it’s job and demonstrates that your A rated windows that are highly energy efficient are keeping the cold out and the warmth in.
The windows we provide here at SGK Home Improvements are either thermally broken aluminium or multi chamber PVCu. This results in efficient frames that when working with our Argon gas filled glass with warm edge spacer bars and specialist low emissivity coating keep the heat in the home. Sometimes this can mean condensation on the outside of your windows.
In simple terms, any surface that is colder externally than the surface internally will condensate. So there is nothing to worry about if you see condensation on the outside pane.
Adequately ventilating a room and letting fresh air in will work wonders in reducing moisture levels in the home and your new windows and doors will also help.