How to see clearly if your double glazing fails

Window condensation is a common problem, especially in the colder months when windows typically remain closed for long periods.

When the seal on a double glazed glass unit breaks down, or ‘fails’ as is known in the industry, that condensation will get into the inside of the glass unit, resulting in misted double glazing which can be permanent trapped.

If this is the case, it won’t only be the heat that is rising from your home, your energy bills could see a hike too. 

So – what should you do at the first signs of condensation in your windows?

Internal condensation within the room can be prevented by opening your windows for a short period of time every day, or opening your window trickle vents if you have them, or making sure the room is adequately ventilated. 

Double glazing is made by putting two panes of glass together with a thermally efficient spacer bar in between that is slightly smaller than the overall dimensions of the glass to form a gap between them. The glass is then sealed together using a hot melt adhesive to form a double-glazed unit.

The air trapped inside the two glasses (or gas for improved thermal efficiency) creates an insulating barrier that keeps heat in and the cold out. If the seal fails, and condensation gets trapped inside these two panes of glass, this can result in misted windows.

The message from Safe Local Trades double-glazing experts is that the most common misconception is that a brand-new window is needed when the sealed unit fails, meaning that a lot of people put-off having the unsightly misted window replaced due to cost.

It is also worth mentioning that broken sealed units are leaking expensive energy out from your home into the environment, making your heating system work harder than it needs to

To repair this window, all that is required is a new double-glazed unit (providing the frame is in good condition), not the entire window. This unit can be fitted in minutes with minimal disruption!

Whatever your style of window, or concern, there is likely to be a solution. For more information on this and other double-glazing repairs please visit www.safelocaltrades.com/PE/pe-central/window-and-door-repairs/pe1