If you’ve got double glazing on your windows, then you’ll know that it can help to keep your home warm and insulated during the colder months. It’s a great way to improve your property’s energy efficiency and minimise noise from outside. But what you might not realise is that condensation can sometimes build up on the glass and within the double glazing, which can eventually lead to moisture damage.

Luckily, there are a few things you can do to help manage this condensation and keep your home safe and dry. Read on for our top tips on managing double glazing condensation!

What is condensation and why does it matter?

Condensation is the process of water vapour turning into liquid water. It can happen when warm air meets a cold surface, or when humid air cools down. Because windows are typically colder than the air around them, condensation often forms on glass surfaces. 

While condensation is a natural process, it can be problematic if it happens too often or in large amounts. When condensation forms on windows, it can lead to streaking, staining, and even mould growth, which can be tricky to tackle. For this reason, it’s important to keep an eye on window condensation and take steps to prevent it from becoming a problem.

Causes of double glazing condensation on windows 

If you’ve noticed condensation on your double-glazed windows it’s usually because the inner pane of glass is colder than the air on the other side. There are several reasons this can happen, including:

• The window is located in a room that is cooler than the rest of the house. This could be due to drafts, poor insulation, or simply because the room isn’t heated as much as the rest of the house.
• The window is located in a humid room, such as a bathroom or kitchen. This could be due to cooking, showering, or laundry drying.
• There is something blocking the airflow around the window, such as curtains or furniture. This prevents the warm air from circulating and causes condensation to form.

Why is there condensation between the panels of glass on my windows?

Condensation can happen on a range of surfaces, from the walls of your shower to car windows and Tupperware boxes stored in the fridge.

You might notice condensation on the outer glass of your windows. Usually, this can be easily rectified. If you see condensation between the panels of your double-glazed windows, however, this is a more significant problem.

Double-glazed windows have two layers of glass separated by an air space. The air space is usually filled with argon gas, which has low thermal conductivity. This means that it doesn’t transfer heat very well, so it helps to keep the inside of the window at a consistent temperature. 

If the air-tight seal between the panels of your double glazing fails, it can let the insulating argon gas escape. As a result, water vapour can get in and condense on the cold surface of the inner pane. Unfortunately, if your double-glazing seal has failed, you’ll need to install new windows.

Ways to help prevent condensation in your home 

If you notice condensation on the outer glass of your double-glazed windows, there are a few things you can do to remove the moisture and prevent it from happening again. 

• Try to increase the ventilation in the room by opening a window or door for a few minutes each day. 
• If possible, maintain a consistent temperature inside your home. If there is a big difference between the temperature inside and outside, condensation is more likely to occur. 
• You can also try using a dehumidifier to remove some of the moisture from the air. 
• Make sure there isn’t anything blocking the airflow around your windows (for instance, blinds or curtains) so that the warm air can circulate freely. 
• Ensure your windows are clean and free of dirt and debris. A build-up of grime can make it harder for heat to escape, leading to condensation.
• You could consider installing a window fan to help circulate air and can reduce the risk of condensation.

If you see condensation on your windows, wipe them down with a clean cloth to remove the moisture. It’s also helpful to open the window slightly to let some of the moisture escape.

How SpotDif can help

Now you know a little more about double glazing condensation, we hope you’ll be able to keep your windows in top condition. However, if you’ve noticed condensation between the panels of your double glazing, it might be time for new windows. 

At SpotDif, we compare hundreds of local window installation companies so you can get the best deals on your double glazing. Browse our double glazed windows deals to find quality services and installation in your local area.