Have you ever noticed how the view through your double-pane window isn’t quite as clear as when they were first installed?
That foggy layer between the panes is condensation buildup, and it can be unsightly. The good news is it doesn’t always require a complete replacement of those expensive windows right away. There are a few easy ways you can get rid of condensation and restore your windows to crystal clear again.
This guide explores how to get rid of condensation between double-glazed windows, as well as the likely causes and signs for a window replacement.
Absolutely! Several specialist companies can help fix condensation in double-glazed window units. Often, the process involves making holes into the glass pane or spacer bar unit, after which a special desiccant or drying agent is injected or pumped to expel the condensation or dry out the air within the glass window unit.
In the coming sections, we’ll explain how to get rid of condensation inside windows. But first, let’s understand what causes condensation in the first place.
The fog on your office windows is caused by condensation forming between the panes of your double-glazed windows. Condensation forms when warm, moist air meets a cold surface — like the glass in your windows. As the warm air cools, it can no longer hold as much water vapour, so the excess condenses into water droplets on the window.
Several factors contribute to condensation in an insulated glass unit, including:
Now that you know what causes the condensation in your office windows, let’s consider a few fixes for condensation inside double glazing that you can do before contacting a professional glazier for more permanent solutions. You can either use a humidifier, improve ventilation, or apply a moisture absorbent.
Excess moisture in the air is the main cause of condensation buildup. A dehumidifier can help lower the humidity levels in your office and reduce condensation. Place it in the office space experiencing the most buildup. Run it continuously on a medium setting until the condensation clears. Then, adjust to a level that sufficiently prevents its reoccurrence.
Increasing airflow around and between the window panes can help.
Here are 4 helpful tips:
Products like DampRid or calcium chloride can help absorb excess moisture in the air. Place open containers of these moisture-absorbing crystals around the room, especially near the windows of interest. Replace or recharge the crystals as directed to keep them effective. Silica gel packets, often found in product packaging, can also help reduce condensation when placed near windows.
These temporary solutions should help clear up and prevent minor to moderate condensation between your double-glazed windows. For severe or ongoing issues, it’s best to contact a professional to inspect your windows and determine if repairs, re-sealing the window frame or an entire window fitting is needed. Condensation left long-term can lead to water damage around the window frames and reduced insulation, so it’s important to fix it as soon as possible.
While the above temporary solutions are great, you’ll need a more permanent solution to remove condensation inside double glazing in the long run. If condensations are left unaddressed, the water buildup can lead to mould growth and damage to the windows.
Here are 4 key signs it’s time to replace your double-glazed windows:
Replacing your double-glazed windows may seem like an expense you want to avoid, but doing so will only lead to bigger problems down the road. New energy-efficient windows can save on heating and cooling costs, increase your office building life span, reduce outside noise, and provide a clear view once again. Your windows have served you well — it’s now time to invest in the latest glazing technology and enjoy improved comfort for years to come.
Condensation building up between your double-glazed windows means it’s time for professional help. As the sealed units start to fail, moisture gets trapped inside and clouds your view. The good news is that GLRE offers professional services to fix double-glazing condensation and clear up your windows again.
Here’s how GLRE can help:
If your double-glazing units are still in good shape structurally, a refurbishment is a cost-effective solution. This involves reusing the existing glass panes and frames but replacing the failed seals to repair the leak and prevent more condensation buildup. Our team of glazing experts will remove your window sashes, replace all the seals and weatherstripping, and then reinstall your glazing — often looking as good as new. Here’s a case study if you’re curious about how the procedure works.
For severely damaged or older windows, a full double-glazing replacement may be the better option. This involves removing your existing windows entirely and installing high-efficiency new double-glazed units. New windows provide improved insulation and soundproofing.
Replacement options range from basic double glazing to high-spec units with features like low-E glass, krypton gas-filled spaces, and security upgrades. Here’s a case study of how we replaced 576 High-Level Georgian Wired Glass to 2,438 existing overhead bays at Heathrow Airport.
Whichever option you choose, hiring a professional double-glazing company to resolve failed or broken window seals is the most effective solution. We have the proper tools, equipment, and experience to complete the job thoroughly. Your windows will once again keep the weather out while maintaining a clear view — and your office’s heating bills may even improve as an added benefit. Contact us today to discuss your project needs.
Yes, it is possible to remove condensation inside double glazing via several methods, such as inserting towels soaked in vinegar between the panes, using a heat gun, replacing any weatherstripping or sealant around the window, or using dehumidifying products (desiccants). However, it’s recommended to consult a professional glazier to properly address the issue or even replace the affected glass unit if necessary.
To stop condensation between double-pane windows, consider soaking a towel in vinegar and inserting it between the panes of the glass. The vinegar extracts the air moisture content while the towel forms a barrier that stops warm air from coming into contact with the cold glass, keeping your windows super clear and devoid of condensation. Still, it’s best to consult a professional glazier who can assess the situation and provide appropriate solutions, such as repairing or replacing the affected window unit.
Yes, a hair dryer (or heat gun) can get rid of condensation between glass panes. Using a hair dryer on the outside of the glass unit extracts excess moisture resting between the two glass layers of the double-pane windows, reducing the buildup of condensation. However, using a hair dryer is a temporary solution because the condensation will return — it’s best to consult a professional glazier for appropriate solutions to address this issue.
No, condensation between window panes will not go away. You can’t get rid of condensation forming between window units; a lack of airflow makes it difficult for the moisture to dissipate. As a result, the trapped moisture often results in mould growth. Mould, even when present in minimal amounts between window panes, may trigger indoor allergy symptoms. This is a sign that the seal on the window has failed and needs to be replaced by a professional glazier.
Now that you know how to get rid of condensation between double-glazed windows in your office buildings, you can be sure of a sparkling window all day, plus reduced energy bills. Start with the simple fixes like improving ventilation and wiping down the glass. If that doesn’t do the trick, try using a sealant or desiccant kit. And for stubborn condensation between the panes that just won’t budge, a professional can inject argon gas to create an insulating barrier.
GLRE offers professional glazing services to help you eliminate condensation between your double-glazed windows. In cases where refurbishment won’t do the trick, complete replacement may be the only option. Contact us now to evaluate your window units for the right solution.
