You wake up, it’s a beautiful morning with sun streaming in and there it is, condensation clouding the two panes of glass of your double glazed windows. It’s not an uncommon scene and spring and autumn are typically the months when condensation on windows becomes a visible problem. While older style windows may need replacing to maximise your home’s energy efficiency, for the odd panel or two there are a number of ways to remedy things, and West Norfolk Glass can help!
Why do I get condensation on my windows?
Condensation on windows typically occurs in spring and autumn when rising temperatures raise the dew point, the point where air at a certain temperature or pressure condenses into water. In summer and winter, temperatures are generally steady, but in spring and autumn the weather can be unpredictable and, as the window becomes cold overnight, there is often an imbalance between the dew point on the glass and that outside, so condensation forms. Depending on the amount of water, or humidity, in the atmosphere, condensation can occur at higher temperatures or, conversely, in cold conditions it can occur when there is relatively low humidity too.
Energy efficient windows reduce the amount of heat which escapes and so condensation forms on the outside which typically clears as soon as the dew point lifts. However, condensation is more likely to occur on the inside of a single glazed window as there is only one pane of glass between the inside and outside temperatures.
Older double glazed units can also be affected if they have damaged or perished window seals and, while it doesn’t necessarily mean they are faulty, left unchecked, condensation can lead to the development of mould in the silicone, window frame and even surrounding wall. Damp and mould can affect our health, particularly for those with respiratory problems or an impaired immune system, and should not be left untreated.
Need to replace your windows? Call West Norfolk Glass on 01553 763164 to speak to our expert team today.
How can I fix condensation on my windows?
If condensation forms on the inside pane of your windows, in most cases, the best way to remedy high levels of moisture is to improve the circulation of air and reduce the humidity. Opening windows and keeping rooms at a constant, warm temperature will help, but in kitchens and bathrooms you may need to take additional measures such as using an extractor fan or dehumidifier.
Boiling a kettle, cooking, baths and showers all increase the level of moisture in the air in a home, and when drying clothes it’s important to ensure the area is well ventilated as excessive moisture can create mould spores. Additionally, it’s advisable to wipe down windows with a microfibre cloth or use a handheld window vac to extract and dispose of water.
More frustratingly, when condensation appears in the air gap between the two panes of a window moisture can ‘fog’ the glass. If a large amount of water settles in the frame for a long period of time this can pool and create rust or cracking at the base of the PVCu unit.
In low quality double glazing or older units, the rubber seal may have deteriorated or become loose over time, allowing water to accumulate between the two panes. Even a small imperfection in a seal can lead to a PVCu unit deteriorating, so it’s important to install high quality windows and maintain them with regular cleaning using a non-abrasive cleaner. A failed window unit also means heat is being lost and your double glazing is costing you money in wasted energy use.
Wondering whether to replace your PVCu windows? Call West Norfolk Glass on 01553 763164 to speak to our expert team today.
Replacement windows in West Norfolk
As a member of the Independent Network, a nationwide organisation which represents the UK’s best local PVCu window and door companies, West Norfolk Glass’ windows and doors come with a minimum 10-year guarantee, and in some cases longer. We offer a wide range of PVCu windows with a variety of styles to suit period and contemporary properties, and at a broad spectrum of price points.
Fitting high-quality double glazing will help to reduce heat loss and the likelihood of condensation forming between the glass of your windows. Following changes to building regulations in 2022, all windows and doors must be fitted with trickle vents and these are a useful way of reducing the likelihood of condensation forming on the inside of your windows and doors. It is always worth speaking to a professional glazing company such as West Norfolk Glass to ensure that your windows and doors are suited to your property and well-fitted to reduce energy loss and the likelihood of condensation forming in your home. Our expert team can visit your home to provide a free, no-obligation quote.
Get the best glazing solutions for your home in Norfolk, Cambridgeshire and Lincolnshire – West Norfolk Glass is a member of Independent Network and a founding member of the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF). Call us on 01553 763164.
