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Why is My Double Glazed Window Misted? Double glazing is an excellent way to improve the efficiency of your home and guarantee optimal energy efficiency. If you notice that your windows are misting, then this is usually an indication of a broken window seal. This can allow moisture to enter the insulation portion of your window. This will drastically reduce their performance. Luckily, this issue is quite easy to resolve. What is it? You might get condensation on the exterior of your double-glazed windows from time to time especially when it's cold and windy. This is a normal sign that your windows are working well, keeping cold out and the warmth in. You can clean it off or let it go away by itself. If your double glazed window mists on the inside though it is more of an issue. This is an indication of a broken seal or a failure in your double glazing. Moisture may get in between the two panes of glass in double-glazed units that have failed. This could cause the argon, xenon or krypton gas that is used in them to leak out too. Once this happens the high density gases lose their insulating properties and your window is no longer a sealed unit. One of the primary reasons for the seal of a window to fail is the natural wear and tear over years. This is due to the constant expansion and contraction of gasses inside your double glazed windows as temperatures change. Using abrasive chemical cleaners on your double glazing could cause damage to the seal and cause it to fail in time. If the seal on the double-glazed windows you have is broken, warm air can escape between the glass panes, and cool air can get in, causing moisture buildup on the bars that hold the glass unit. This is known as a “blown” window and can lead to expensive energy bills in winter. This issue can be resolved by replacing the glass units in your double-glazed windows. It's a less expensive alternative than replacing the entire window. It can also ensure that your home will be properly protected and insulated. It's also a good idea to make sure that the business you choose to replace your double-glazed windows is insured properly, since this will protect you in the event of unforeseen issues regarding the installation. What is the reason for this? Condensation in double-glazed windows can cause mildew to grow on window frames which is not only unsightly but also a risk. In extreme cases, black mould can grow on window frames or cills. This isn't a good thing for your family. It is crucial to know the reason for condensation in order to get to grips with how to best deal with it. Condensation is caused when the temperature of the glass is below the dew point – the point at which water vapour in the air becomes liquid water. It is therefore common to see it at night or in the early morning when the dewpoint is highest and the temperature of air is higher than the glass surface. Condensation in double-glazed windows will become more frequent as the weather becomes colder and humidity levels rise. In the majority cases it is a natural occurrence and does not indicate any issue with the double glazing. If the condensation only appears on the outside of the window and disappears once the sun sets it is not a reason to worry. Double glazed windows that are damaged or defective aren't as insulating as they should, which can lead to higher bills. If the seals have been broken, moisture could be able to get into the panes and cause the windows to mist. There are many reasons for misted double glazing, however there are some that are important to consider. The first indication of problems with double-glazed windows is typically when you start to see condensation appearing on the inside of the window. The next stage will be when you start to observe water stained or damaged glass caused by the trapped moisture between the two panes of glass. This could be due to a problem during installation or just gradual wear and tear that occurs over time. In some cases, this could be a sign that the window is reaching the end of its lifespan and requires replacement to improve the insulation efficiency of your home. How can I get rid of it? Double glazing is an excellent investment in your home's energy efficiency and the appearance of your windows. If your double glazing is cloudy or misted it could ruin the appearance of your windows. Fortunately, the solution to this problem is easy and cost-effective. Double glazing that has mist is a result of condensation or moisture getting into the space between your double-glazed windows which must be airtight. This is usually a sign that the window seal has broken and needs to be repaired. Condensation on the outside of double-glazed windows that are brand new is normal, especially during cold weather. This happens because the glass has been chilled by the air that has warmed up and reached its dew point. When this water vapour hits the cold surface of your windows it is visible and will eventually disappear as the glass warms again. It is only when the double-glazed windows inside mist that you have to do something about it. This is because the condensation is signalling that there is damage to the seal between the two panes of glass in your window and could be a sign of poor installation or chemicals used in cleaning products. To eliminate condensation on your double glazed windows, there are many options you can consider. Try wiping them clean using a damp cloth, this will usually eliminate the condensation. You can spray them with a glass cleaner that is designed to eliminate the haze created by condensation. You can also install dehumidifiers at home to absorb moisture and prevent it from accumulating on windows. There are professional solutions that can be used to repair your double-glazed window mist. This involves drilling a small opening in one of the windows and pumping into a specially-formulated desiccant which will aid in drying out the window and avoid future problems. However, repairing misted double glazing is risky and should only be done by a skilled professional. This procedure will restore the double-glazed windows back to their original state and guarantee that you won't experience any condensation or misting issues in the future. What is the best solution? Condensation is commonplace on the outside of new double-glazed windows. This is a good indication that your windows are functioning well. It can be easily removed. The condensation is caused due to the temperature difference between the air in the house and the glass. If you notice condensation between the double-glazed glass panes, it is not normal. It is imperative to immediately take action. The window seal is broken and moisture has the ability to get into the space between the glass panes. This can result in windows losing their insulation properties, which can reduce the efficiency of your home. The best method to reduce condensation on your double-glazed windows is by improving the ventilation of your home. Opening the window every day will lower humidity levels and allow fresh air to circulate throughout your home. It is also recommended to use extractor fans in areas that create lots of moisture, such as kitchens and bathrooms. Dehumidifiers can also be useful in actively removing excess moisture from the air and stopping it from condensing on cold surfaces, like window glass. Another effective solution for reducing condensation in double-glazed windows is to clean the glass with an anti-fogging product. These products are readily available in most hardware stores and are designed to stop the build-up of moisture. However, it is important to remember that these products aren't permanent and may need to be reapplied on a regular basis. If your double-glazed windows are still covered by warranty, contacting a professional installer is the best option to fix the issue. It is recommended to go with an FENSA certified company as they will offer a 10-year guarantee and adhere to UK Building Regulations.