Condensation inside double glazing is one of the most frustrating issues homeowners can face, often appearing as an unsightly fog that obscures your view and potentially signals deeper problems with your windows. With over a decade of experience serving Surrey and Sussex homeowners at BSF Windows, we’ve encountered numerous cases of this common problem.
Understanding why condensation forms inside of double glazing is crucial for maintaining your windows. This comprehensive guide will explore the causes, effects, and solutions to help you maintain clear views through your windows year-round.
What is Condensation?
The formation of condensation is a natural phenomenon that occurs when warm air meets the cold surface temperature of the windows. This interaction causes water vapour in the air to cool rapidly and transform into water droplets. In your home, this process becomes particularly noticeable on window panes because they typically represent the coldest surfaces in any room. The temperature difference between indoor and outdoor air creates perfect conditions for condensation to form, especially during colder months when the contrast is most pronounced.
Common Signs of Condensation Problems
You might notice foggy patches forming between the glass panes or water droplets trapped within the window unit instead of just outside of the glass. The spacer bar may show visible signs of deterioration around the edges of the glass. Another common indicator is the appearance of streaks or marks that remain impossible to clean, no matter which side of the window you try to reach them from. Additionally, you may notice your energy bills creeping up as the window’s efficiency decreases – this is because compromised double glazing loses its insulating properties, forcing your heating system to work harder to maintain comfortable temperatures.
The Role of Humidity in Condensation Formation
Indoor humid air play a large part in condensation development. Modern homes, being more airtight for energy efficiency, can actually exacerbate this problem by trapping moisture inside. The air in our homes naturally contains water vapour from various daily activities.
Primary Sources of Indoor Humidity
Several everyday activities contribute to indoor moisture levels, often more than homeowners realise. Cooking without proper ventilation releases substantial amounts of water vapour into the air, especially when boiling or steaming food. Drying clothes indoors, particularly during winter when outdoor drying isn’t possible, can release several litres of water into your home’s atmosphere. Showering or bathing without adequate extraction is another major contributor, as hot water creates steam that disperses throughout your home. Using unvented tumble dryers indoors can be particularly problematic, as they release warm, moist air directly into your living space. Even simple activities like watering indoor plants add to the overall humidity, as water evaporates from soil and leaf surfaces throughout the day.
Why Condensation Appears Inside Double Glazing
Double glazing consists of two panes of glass separated by an air gap or inert gas, typically argon. This space is sealed with a specialised spacer bar around the perimeter, creating an insulating barrier that helps maintain consistent indoor temperatures and reduces heat loss. When condensation appears between these panes, it indicates that this sealed unit has been compromised.
Understanding Seal Failure
The most common cause of internal double glazing condensation is a broken seal, a problem that often develops gradually over time. Modern double glazing units are manufactured with a highly engineered seal system to maintain the integrity of the air gap between the panes of your double glazing. This seal is crucial in preventing moisture infiltration and maintaining the window’s insulating properties. However, like all building components, these seals have a finite lifespan, with most double glazing units having a life expectancy of 15-20 years under normal conditions.
Environmental factors play a significant role in determining how quickly seals deteriorate. Daily exposure to UV rays can cause the sealant materials to become brittle and less effective, while constant temperature fluctuations force the materials to expand and contract repeatedly, eventually compromising their integrity. Weather conditions, particularly driving rain and extreme temperatures, add further stress to these components.
Understanding these factors helps homeowners appreciate why regular maintenance and prompt attention to early warning signs are essential for maximising the lifespan of their double glazing units.
Condensation Prevention and Solutions
Essential Prevention Tips
There are several effective ways to minimise condensation risk in your home. One of the best options is proper ventilation infrastructure. Installing and regularly using extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms is crucial, as these areas generate excessive moisture during cooking and bathing.
Maintaining consistent heating throughout your property is one of the best ways to prevent condensation. Rather than allowing temperatures to fluctuate dramatically, keep your heating system running at a steady level to prevent cold air spots where condensation is more likely to form.
Open windows or use extraction systems to manage humidity levels during high-moisture activities like cooking, showering, or drying wet clothes. An even better option is to install a dehumidifier can provide an additional defence against condensation by actively removing excess moisture from the air.
Professional Intervention
When to seek expert help:
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- Persistent condensation inside of a window
- Visible damage to seals or frames
- Increasing energy bills
- Difficulty operating windows
Seasonal Considerations
The likelihood of condensation problems varies throughout the year. Winter months typically see increased chance of condensation due to more significant temperature differences between indoor and outdoor environments.
During the summer months, different challenges arise. The intense heat can cause materials to expand and contract, potentially affecting seal integrity. Additionally, air conditioning can create temperature differentials that lead to condensation formation.
The Cost of Ignoring the Problem
Leaving condensation issues unaddressed can lead to more serious problems. Persistent moisture between panes can lead to deterioration of the window seal, spacer bar, mould growth within the unit, reduced thermal efficiency, and potential damage to the whole window. The cost of repairs typically increases the longer the problem is left unattended.
Final Thoughts
Understanding why condensation gets inside double glazing is crucial for maintaining your windows’ performance and your home’s comfort. While some condensation is normal and temporary, persistent internal condensation indicates a problem that requires attention. The good news is that by implementing proper ventilation strategies, maintaining consistent temperatures, and addressing issues promptly, you can protect your investment in your home’s windows and maintain clear, efficient glazing.
Act Today
If you’re experiencing issues with condensation in your double glazing, don’t wait for the problem to worsen. Our expert team at BSF Windows is ready to assess your situation and provide solutions. With our experience serving homeowners across Surrey, Sussex and the surrounding areas, we can help you maintain clear, efficient windows.
You can call us on 01293 408 713, email us at bsfwindows@gmail.com or use our online contact form.
If you’d prefer to meet us in person, you can visit us at our showroom. This is at 31-33 Station Road, Horley, Surrey, RH6 9HW. Here, you can chat about any condensation issues you’re having and, should you need new windows, explore our range of windows.
Contact us today to talk about your window needs.