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“Help! How to get rid of condensation in my windows? There’s got to be a solution to this!”
We get asked this question so many times and it’s not something easy to fix. And no amount of window cleaning can really help fix this issue.
We assume that you have double-pane windows. If you have condensation on single-pane windows, there is actually a solution.
For condensation on single-pane windows, you would need to free your home from moisture and have good ventilation throughout your home during the winter and summer months.
This can be done by:
- Leaving the windows slightly opened so moisture doesn’t get trapped in your home which causes water vapor to form.
- Have proper ventilation installed and running in your home.
- Dry your clothes outside.
- Cover all pots and pans when cooking.
- Keep the temperature inside as close to outside, but this can get slightly too cold in the winter seasons.
That’s the solution to condensation for single-pane windows.
Most of the homeowners in the U.S. especially those living in Austin, TX have double pane windows. And that is what where going to talk about today, how to get rid of condensation in double pane windows.
Before we dive into the actual solutions, let’s talk about first the components of a modern double window panes below….
The Anatomy Of Modern Double-Pane Windows
Here’s a picture that displays the anatomy of double-pane windows:
Let’s dissect the window pane and tell you exactly the purpose of each component and why the windows must have these components to keep condensation (also known as chemical fogging) from happening.
Inside Pane:
This is the windowpane facing the inside of your home.
Depending on the quality of the window you purchase, the higher quality windows have a thin layer unseen by the naked eye of coating that helps reflect hot air (in the winter) and cold air (in the summer) from escaping your home.
This helps your home stay at a comfortable room temperature year-round and reduces the amount of work your HVAC system has to do.
Thus you save much more money in the long run.
Outside Pane:
This is the windowpane facing the outside of your home.
Also coated with a thin layer that helps reflect and minimize the number of ultraviolet rays, sunlight, and heat entering your home.
All for the purpose of saving you energy and reducing the cost of your bills.
Empty Space In Between:
Why is there an empty space between the two windows?!
Maybe if they didn’t design the windows this way, condensation wouldn’t even happen in the first place! Again, it comes back to energy efficiency. Believe it or not, but the empty space is actually NOT empty! You can’t see it, but the empty space is filled with gas which is usually either argon, krypton, or a mixture of the two.
Why fill the glass with gas?
Isn’t that dangerous? The gas between two panes sounds like an explosion waiting to happen.
And the name Krypton(nite) sounds like something even Superman doesn’t like…
No.
The gas isn’t dangerous at all. In fact, these gases are colorless, odorless, environmentally friendly, and non-toxic. The bottom line is, it won’t kill you!
These gases serve a great purpose and help further reduce energy costs, which helps save you even more money. Who wouldn’t want that?
How this works is, gas is much denser than air therefore makes the perfect insulator for your windows to keep room temperature.
Pro-tip: Make sure to ask your window salesman the U-value of the windows, as sometimes they can raise the price on you by saying “We have more argon than any other windows.” By knowing the U-Value of your window you’ll know exactly how efficient the windows will be and not spend more than you should.
Spacer:
This component is probably the most important piece to insulated windows.
Without a proper space in place, your windows won’t help save you energy and cause a lot of chemical fogging to take place.
Here is the main function of what a spacer does for your windows:
- It helps regulate the temperature and help your windows conserve energy
- Keeps the gas that’s in between the two glass panes from leaking
- Help keep the windows and frame in place from harsh weather and conditions
- A layer of protection from gas leaking and water moisture entering and fogging up your windows
As you can see, the spacer is extremely important. Without it you’ll see condensation all over your home windows, and a high electric bill every month.
Desiccant:
What is a desiccant?
Remember when you opened up a new package and as you take out your product you always have a small little bag that has the print “Do Not Eat”?
You might have been curious and ripped open that small little “Do Not Eat” bag to find a bunch of small clear beads.
These same little small clear beads are found in your windows and we call them desiccants.
These desiccants help absorb any moisture or water vapor that tries to enter the glass windows and in turn, help prevent your windows from fogging up.
But where are they located?
You might have taken a look at your windows to spot these desiccants,
and there are no visible signs of these small clear beads found anywhere on the windows.
You won’t because they are located inside the spacer. The spacer and the desiccants together help aid in preventing condensation from forming inside your windows.
Secondary Seal:
The secondary seal is what keeps it all together.
The secondary seal helps prevent moisture and vapor out, but that’s not its primary focus. The secondary seal is meant to hold the structure of the windows together.
Your windows will go through a lot and it needs a seal that’s strong and long-lasting.
Usually, when a window begins to form condensation it means the seal is broken. When the seal breaks, air and moisture will be able to get into the windows.
“But won’t the spacer and desiccant prevent and absorb all that moisture?
Yes.
But not for long.
When the seal breaks it also ruins the overall structure of the window leading to gaps and distortion of the spacer. This leads to the argon or krypton gas escaping and getting replaced by air, moisture, and water vapor.
The seal is important and it’s why it must be extremely durable.
Understanding Condensation Between the Panes
Moisture forms when warm, moist air comes into contact with a cold surface. Double-pane windows are designed with an air gap between them, creating an insulating barrier. When the seals around this air gap fail, warm air can enter. This trapped moisture condenses on the colder glass surface as the outside temperature drops.
What Causes Condensation Between Panes?
- Seal failure and moisture seepage: The most common cause is a breakdown of the window’s edge seals. This allows humid air to penetrate the space between the glass panes.
- Aging window technology vs. modern insulation: Older windows are more susceptible to seal degradation and often lack the advanced thermal barrier of modern windows.
- External vs. internal condensation and why they differ: External condensation is normal and occurs when warm, humid outdoor air meets the cold exterior glass. Internal condensation happens on the inside surface of the innermost pane, and condensation between panes signals a window seal degradation.
How Does Temperature Affect Window Condensation?
- Seasonal variations in condensation buildup: During colder months, the temperature difference between inside and outside is greater, leading to increased condensation.
- The role of indoor vs. outdoor humidity levels: High humidity and cold temperature outdoors exacerbate condensation problems.
Is Condensation Between Window Glazing a Serious Problem?
Modern windows, especially those with multiple panes, are designed to create a thermal barrier. This barrier minimizes the transfer of heat between the inside and outside of your home. The air (like argon) trapped between the panes acts as an insulating gas, slowing the heat flow.
Impact on Insulation and Energy Efficiency
- Increased heat loss and higher energy bills. Condensation reduces the insulating properties of your windows, leading to heat loss and increased energy consumption.
- Potential for mold growth and window damage—Trapped moisture can lead to mold, wood rot, and structural deterioration. It creates an ideal environment for mold and mildew growth, which can damage window frames and surrounding structures.
What are the Signs of Condensation Issues?
- Persistent fogging between panes.
- Water droplets that can’t be wiped away.
- Discoloration or staining on glass.
Assessing Condensation Between Your Window Panes
What tools do you need to assess the damage?
- Moisture meters, thermal imaging cameras, and infrared thermometers can help identify moisture and temperature variations.
How can you determine if the condensation is serious?
- Spotting early vs. advanced seal failure: Early signs include occasional fogging, while advanced seal between the panes leakage results in persistent water buildup.
- Checking for drafts and temperature fluctuations: Drafts and noticeable temperature differences near the window indicate compromised insulation.