You probably know it: windows that fog up on a cool morning or while cooking. A little condensation on single-pane glass or on the inside of a window is normal.
But what if condensation appears between the two panes of your double glazing? Then it’s time to be cautious, because that’s a sign that something is wrong with your windows
Condensation on Windows: Normal or not?
Let’s first make a distinction. Condensation on the inside of your window is rather normal. It is often caused by high indoor humidity combined with insufficient ventilation. This is annoying (and harmful to health in the long run), but not necessarily a problem with the window or the glass itself.
Condensation between the panes of double glazing, on the other hand, is indeed a warning sign. It means that the insulating layer between the windows is no longer airtight. Moisture has penetrated where it should never be. Time to address it!
How Does Condensation Form between Double Glazing?
Double glazing consists of two panes of glass with an airtight layer in between. This layer is often filled with dry air or an insulating gas, which improves the window’s insulation. This makes it difficult for cold to spread.
When that sealed system is no longer completely airtight, moisture gets into that airtight space. When the temperature difference between inside and outside increases, that moisture can condense. You will then see droplets or blurry spots between the glass panes. The possible causes are:
- Wear: double glazing does not last forever. Over time, the edges of the windows can lose adhesion.
- Production error: sometimes the glass has never been completely airtight, and the factory is to blame.
- Damage: a small crack or an error during installation can cause air to penetrate between the two panes of glass.
The result is always the same: moisture between the double glazing, condensation, and cold drafts entering the house.
Why is Condensation in the Windows a Problem?
Condensation in double glazing is more than just an aesthetic problem. Yes, those damp spots don’t look good, but the consequences go much further.
- Poorer insulation: the insulating effect of double glazing is largely lost. Your home loses heat faster, which increases your energy bill.
- Moisture problems in the house: prolonged moisture in windows will eventually attract mold. These attach themselves around or on your window, which is harmful to your health and the structure of your windows.
- Depreciation of your home: a moisture problem in the house is, of course, also not good for the value of your home.
In short: it is important to do something about that moisture between double glazing.
It is often difficult to see with the naked eye whether your windows are still completely in order, especially if they are a bit older. Sometimes the condensation is only very subtly or temporarily visible.
The experts at Solusio can easily identify the moisture problem with specialized equipment. This way you know exactly where the problem is and whether it is necessary to replace the window or not.
Can You Remove Condensation from Double Glazing?
Honest answer: no, not really. Once there is moisture between the two panes of glass, you can’t just “polish” it out. The problem lies in the construction of the window itself. There are actually only two possible solutions:
- Replacing the glass: in many cases, replacing the glazing is the best and most sustainable solution. Sometimes this can be done without replacing the entire window frame, which keeps costs down.
- Full window replacement: if the windows are outdated anyway and the insulation value is low, a complete replacement with high-efficiency glazing is often the smartest investment. Moreover, you quickly earn back that investment thanks to lower energy costs.
Can You Prevent Condensation in Double Glazing?
Fortunately, you can take steps to avoid facing the same moisture problem again in the future. Always choose quality windows and have them installed by a professional. DIY might be possible for some renovation projects, but not for window installation. Also, always ensure adequate ventilation in your home. This way, your windows won’t fog up from the inside.
Solusio: your Moisture Expert
Condensation between the panes of your double glazing is unfortunately not a minor inconvenience that will disappear on its own. On the contrary, it indicates a leak in the insulating layer, causing your windows to lose their primary function: retaining heat and keeping moisture out. The only real solution is to repair the windows or install new ones immediately.
Do you want to know for sure how your windows are doing? At Solusio, you can request a free and non-binding moisture diagnosis. This way, you’ll immediately know how serious the problem is and which steps best suit your situation.