If you’ve noticed a build-up of mist or condensation in your double glazed windows, there may be a problem present that requires your attention. But how do you go about identifying and fixing the said problem? Thankfully, we have put together this handy guide to help you in spotting and replacing misted double glazing units so that you can enjoy the numerous benefits of double glazing without facing issues such as increased energy bills, an enhanced carbon footprint and health issues.
Replacing Misted Double Glazing Units: Our Guide
As experts in double glazing in Daventry, we are more than equipped with the necessary knowledge, skills and experience required to advise on identifying and replacing misted double glazing units. Please feel free to get in touch with our team if you would like our help, whether you have questions about your misted double glazing windows or would like to book one of our services. In the meantime, read on to find out not only the cause behind your misted double glazing units but also how you can fix this issue and prevent it from reoccurring in the future.
- What Is A Double Glazed Window?
- Why Do Double Glazing Windows Mist Up On The Inside?
- Why Do Double Glazing Windows Mist Up On The Outside?
- How To Clear Misted Double Glazing Windows
- How To Prevent Misted Double Glazing
What Is A Double Glazed Window?
In order to understand why double glazed windows mist up, we must first explain what their purpose and structure are. Double glazed windows are installed to insulate your home: they help trap heat energy inside so that you can stay warm without pushing your energy bill through the roof! Not only will they save you money, but they will also help you lower your carbon footprint. So how do double glazed windows actually work?
While single glazed windows are constructed with just one single pane or sheet of glass, double glazing consists of two parallel panes with a small gap between them. At first glance, this gap may seem insignificant, but in reality, it is essential to the function of double glazing. Though it may seem to be filled with regular air, it actually contains an inert or non-conductive gas, such as argon or xenon. These gases decrease the amount of heat energy that is able to pass through the window, trapping it inside your home. They also decrease the movement of sound waves through the window, providing increased privacy.
In order to keep these gases trapped between the panes of glass, the seal around the edges of the window panes which attaches them to their frame must be completely secure.
Danetre Glass Project – Window Installation
Why Do Double Glazing Windows Mist Up On The Inside?
Now that we’ve covered what a double glazed window actually is, why do they mist up? Suppose you notice that your double glazed windows have been misted up with condensation. In that case, you should first check whether the condensation build-up is on the inside of the window or the outside, as this will determine the necessary course of action. If you’re struggling to tell, go to the outside of your house and touch the pane to see if it is wet.
If you determine that the condensation build-up is on the inside of the window (in between the two panes of glass), there is a problem. It means that the seal between the panes of glass and the window frame has been broken, either during manufacturing or installation. This breach of the seal allows water into the gap between the panes, which will evaporate, causing condensation or mist to build up on the inside of the window.
Why Is This A Problem?
There are several reasons why condensation inside your windows is a problem:
- Reduced Insulation – first, it means there is a gap in the seal, allowing the inert gas trapped in the space between the panes to escape. This will greatly reduce the insulation abilities of the window.
- Reduced Efficiency – water conducts heat far more easily than inert gas, reducing the efficiency of the window when it comes to insulation.
- Rotting Frames – if the condensation is present in the window for an extended amount of time, the excess moisture can cause severe damage to your frames, which may start to rot. If this happens, you will need to replace your entire window.
- Growth Of Mould – the constant dampness caused by the condensation creates the perfect environment for mould and bacteria to grow in. These can cause health issues and can be difficult to properly remove from your home.
Due to these issues, it is imperative that you address the cause behind the condensation trapped in your window as soon as possible. The team at Danetre Glass are experts in windows in Rugby and the surrounding areas. If you would like our help in assessing and repairing your windows, please do not hesitate to get in touch today.
Why Do Double Glazing Windows Mist Up On The Outside?
If you determine that the condensation build-up is on the outside of the window, there is no need to worry, and no action is necessary. This is actually a sign that your double glazed windows are working very efficiently! As the temperature changes throughout the course of the day, the water vapour in the air will naturally condense and evaporate. If your window is working extra efficiently, the outside pane will be cool, causing water to condense on it.
How To Clear Misted Double Glazing Windows
If your windows are misted up on the inside, it is essential that you fix the problem as soon as possible to avoid unnecessarily driving your energy bills and carbon footprint up. By doing so, you will also prevent more extensive damage or problems from developing, which will save you stress and money in the long run. So how can you go about clearing misted double glazing windows? The answer is that you will need to have your windows repaired or replaced, depending on how extensive the damage is. If you are in need of the help of a professional to fix your windows in Daventry or one of the surrounding areas, why not give us a call at Danetre Glass on 01327 301314?
Can I Do It Myself?
Although you may be tempted to try and remedy the problem yourself, if you are anything less than trained and experienced in repairing or replacing windows, you risk creating a more significant problem than the initial one. We recommend leaving this job to the professionals in order to save yourself time and money since attempting to fix or replace a window yourself will likely result in the need for a premature replacement, should you make even the slightest mistake.
The Cost Of Replacing Misted Double Glazing Units
The cost of replacing misted double glazing units will depend on a number of factors, including the following:
- Whether you choose to fully replace or are able to repair your windows
- The number of double glazing units that need replacing
- The size and style of your windows
- The type and location of your property
Overall, you can expect to pay between £100 and £600 per window, including labour costs, depending on these factors. It is also important to keep in mind that the sooner you fix the problem, the less extensive the damage will be and the more money you will save, especially if you do so before a full window replacement becomes necessary.
Danetre Glass Project – Bay Window Replacement
How To Prevent Misted Double Glazing
If you’ve recently had your misted double glazing units repaired or replaced and are trying to prevent your current units from misting up, you can do so by properly maintaining them from the beginning. This includes not only having them installed by a properly trained professional but also cleaning and inspecting them regularly. Your windows will eventually need to be replaced, regardless of misting, and we recommend having this done every 15-20 years to keep them in good working condition. If you are in need of new windows in Rugby or one of the surrounding areas, you can get in touch with our team of professionals who are more than happy to provide this service to you and will go above and beyond to ensure that your wishes and needs are met.
Danetre Glass Project – Window Installation
Our Guide To Replacing Misted Double Glazing Units
We hope that you have found this article helpful and informative, whether you have noticed mist on or in your windows or are simply making yourself aware of potential issues that could occur with your double glazing should it not be manufactured and installed properly. If you are in need of new windows in Daventry or one of the surrounding areas, please do not hesitate to get in contact with our dedicated team. Meanwhile, if you’re searching for stylish window inspiration, you need look no further than our previous article, which explores seven stunning popular window styles that will effortlessly elevate your home.