Misted Double Glazing Isn't As Tough As You Think
Misted Double Glazing
Double glazing that has mist is an indication of compromised seals which allow moisture to get into the gaps between the panes. This damage can reduce the insulation properties of your windows and lead to a number of problems.
Condensation occurs when warm air comes in contact with cold surfaces and cools to its dew point. If this process isn't managed your windows could become cloudy.
Reduce Indoor Humidity
If your double-glazed windows are prone to misting, there's too much humidity or water in the air. The water will condense onto an unheated surface, such as the glass of your window.
If you'd like to keep your windows clear of misting, decrease the humidity inside by keeping the room well ventilated and installing extractor fans in areas that are known to be hot, such as kitchens and bathrooms. This will stop condensation from forming on your windows by keeping the humidity low in these rooms.
A large gap between your double-glazed windows can aid in keeping them free of mist. If the gaps are too close, moisture could be able to get inside and the seal will crack, leading to misted windows.
In the summer, it is recommended to keep your windows as open as possible. This will keep your home cool and fresh, and will also prevent warm air from escaping through the gaps.
Also, you should keep your curtains and blinds away from the windows. If you hang your curtains on the glass, condensation can build up. This will also cause misting in humid air.
The other major factor in windows' ability to resist condensation is its insulating properties. A double glazed window is composed of two glass panes sealed together with an interlocking bar that is placed between the glass. The spacer bar is constructed of dessicant, which is designed to hold and absorb water vapour from the air. When the window cools down, the silica will release the water vapour, preventing it from reaching its dew point, creating misting.
The insulation properties of your windows may be negatively affected by a number of factors, such as the age and how well your windows were originally installed. The use of chemical cleaning products can also deteriorate the seals, allowing moisture inside and warm air out which can result in your double glazing becoming misty. Use only FENSA-registered window fitters to reduce the risk. Also, always follow misty windows .
Clean Your Windows Everyday
Double-glazed windows are simple to clean and should be cleaned frequently to avoid dirt build-up. Clean windows allow more light into your home. This will reduce the need to increase the thermostat, and helps prevent condensation.
Clean your windows by spraying them with water and some cleaning solution. Rub the solution to remove the cleaner with a microfiber cloth and dry the window with a microfiber towel. It is important to use a lint-free microfiber cloth, as paper towels will leave behind lint and fibres on the windows, which could make them appear dirty. If you aren't able to access your windows using a ladder, you could consider investing in a long extension pole and a squeegee which will let you clean your windows without having to step on them.
The appearance of mist on the outside of windows is perfectly normal and occurs when the air cools down after warming up, and reaches its dew point. This can happen to any surface that is able to cool down, including windows with double glazing and glass. It won't affect the performance of your window, and can be easily wiped off.
If the condensation is within your windows, it could be more problematic and may require attention from an expert. The reason for this is a faulty window seal that allows moisture in and cold air to escape. The seal can be damaged by how the windows were initially fitted or a chemical cleaner applied to them, or even age.
When the seals on the double glazing wear out and the efficiency of the window will be affected and can cause condensation, draughts and mildew. The good news is that the seals can still be repaired and you will have a an energy efficient double-glazed home window. Double glazier repair companies like Mr Misty Ipswich are able to repair gaskets or seals which are not intact in order to restore an efficient weather seal. This can reduce the effects of draughts, water intrusion and condensation as well as preventing more serious issues like mildew, rot and damp.
Repair or replace the glass units
If water seeps into the air gap between your double-glazed windows, it creates condensation and fog which can be ugly and decreases the efficiency of your home. You can stop misting by reducing humidity, improving ventilation, or by using humidifiers. If misting is observed between your windows, this is typically an indication of something more serious, and can't be solved with temporary solutions.
A double glazed window consists of two panes of glass, separated by an air gap, and secured with a top quality thermal barrier, such as the argon gas to improve insulation. This makes windows that are hard to break. The air gap is filled in with a secondary and primary seal, which improves the thermal performance of the window and prevents moisture from getting into the window. Over time, the seals can break due to a variety of factors, such as the age of the windows, the manner in which the windows were installed, and chemical cleaning products.
As the temperature drops outside, the water escaping the air gaps becomes water vapour and forms a layer of fog on the window. The problem with this is that it decreases the effectiveness of your windows as an insulation, letting cold air in and warm air out and making your heating bills increase.
There are companies offering services that claim to fix misty double glazing by drilling holes into the glass units and then pumping them with anti-fogging chemical. This will remove the excess moisture but it's not a solution that lasts and it's not recommended that you attempt it yourself.
If your window seals are damaged and the glass is foggy they might need to be replaced completely. Replacing the window unit is more expensive than simply cleaning the frame of your existing windows but it will resolve the issue and allow you to choose high-quality double glazing to make your home more energy-efficient.
Contact a Window Specialist
Double glazing offers many advantages. It can reduce the cost of energy, increase security, and improve the appearance of your house. However, it is important to maintain these windows in good working order in order to maximise their performance and ensure the best view.
If your double-glazed windows are prone to misting, it's likely that the seal between the two panes has failed. This issue could be caused by a number of factors, including the age of your windows, how they were put in place and the use of chemicals to clean them.
If you notice condensation in double glazed windows or on the outside, it's important to act on the problem as soon as it becomes apparent. If you don't act quickly and take action, it could result in further damage of the window and a reduction in the effectiveness of your home's energy insulation.
It is possible to repair misted windows at home. However, it is best to contact a window specialist. They can provide a simple, quick and cost-effective replacement solution to restore your double glazing to its optimal performance.
The Benefits of Mist Free Window
Double glazing is a cost-effective and effective way to reduce heating bills and prevent heat loss. Keep your double-glazed windows in a good condition by keeping them clean and avoiding extreme temperatures.
If your double-glazed windows mist or smudge, it's likely that the seal is damaged and they are not insulating your home as as they should. This can be very frustrating however it is also a sign that you are wasting money in energy costs because your windows aren't performing in the way they ought to. You can cut down on energy bills by fixing your windows to the highest performance. It is also recommended to replace your double-glazed windows with the latest energy-efficient glass that is high-performance to further improve your energy efficiency.