You know the scenario: you wake up on a chilly morning, and your double-glazed windows are fogging, with condensation trapped between the panes of glass. It’s not just an eyesore — it can indicate a broken seal or seal failure. This leads to a drop in energy efficiency and potential damage to the entire window unit. Dealing with condensation buildup inside your glass panels isn’t just an inconvenience. To fix condensation issues, it’s important to understand why they happen.
In this article, I’ll discuss window condensation in double-pane windows — what causes it, ways to prevent it, and the best ways to get rid of it once it appears. I’ll discuss how temperature differences, excess moisture, and a failed seal contribute to the problem. You may also wonder whether you can attempt a DIY fix or hire a professional for this type of window repair. This guide provides the information you need to tackle that pesky foggy window issue.
Double-Pane Windows: The Basics
Unlike traditional windows, which use one pane of window glass, double-pane windows (or insulated windows) feature two panes. The space between them keeps your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
Air or dense gas, usually argon or krypton, fills the space between the panes. These gas molecules move slowly, maintaining a consistent temperature in the air space. As a result, the cold from outside moves more slowly through the window and into your home. Sometimes, manufacturers add a desiccant material in the sealed space. This helps absorb moisture and prevents mold and mildew buildup in your home.
When the window seals breach, you may begin to experience moisture problems in windows, which require immediate attention. Modern double-pane windows have two seals. The inner seal protects against moisture and corrosion while the outer seal holds the structure in place.
What Causes Condensation on Windows?
Insulated glass windows work extremely well under a lot of strain, such as changes in temperature and inclement weather. However, age eventually corrodes the seals.
Prolonged direct sun exposure causes the panes to expand and contract, which weakens the contact between the window glass and seal. Water retention in the frame, improper drainage, and saturation of the desiccant also compromise the seal.
When window seals are compromised, moisture sneaks into the airspace between the panes, and condensation forms on the glass. You’ll notice a milky or foggy look. If this happens, you might want to do more research on moisture removal in double-pane windows.
How To Prevent Condensation in Double-Pane Windows
To prevent window condensation, increase indoor air circulation. Turn on the kitchen or bathroom fan for at least 15 to 20 minutes every time you cook or shower. Use ceiling fans, even in winter, and set them to rotate in a clockwise direction to push warm air downward.
Keep humidity inside your home in check. If you notice a humidity problem, try using a dehumidifier. It takes in air, removes the moisture, and releases the dry air back into your home.
Prevent condensation by keeping the windows open when the weather allows, which releases any warm, moist air trapped in the house.
How To Get Rid of Condensation in Double-Pane Windows
You might consider tackling the condensation issue on your own, but unfortunately, there’s no permanent DIY fix for condensation in your windows. While you can try some temporary solutions, these methods only offer short-term relief. For a permanent solution, you need to replace the moist air with dry air, which usually requires professional assistance. A professional can address the root of the problem and provide a lasting fix.
DIY Options
Here are some steps you can take to fix the issue yourself.
1. Dehumidifier
Start by using a dehumidifier or air conditioner in a room with foggy windows. These reduce moisture and humidity in the air, which can lessen condensation on your window panes. This solution works best in rooms like bathrooms, where high humidity is a common cause of moisture issues.
2. Hair Dryer
Another DIY method is to use a hair dryer on your window panes from the outside of your home. Applying gentle heat helps evaporate the excess moisture trapped between the two glass layers of your double-pane windows. Move the blow dryer in a circular motion on the window to cover all areas of condensation. Applying this gentle heat reduces moisture buildup.
3. WD-40
You can also try using a dehumidifying product designed for use with double-pane windows. WD-40 Original Spray is pretty handy for tackling window condensation. Just give it a quick spray on both sides of the window, and it helps absorb the moisture from the glass. It’s an easy and affordable short-term fix for keeping your windows clear.
4. Proper Home Maintenance
Finally, don’t neglect your home maintenance. Check the sealant and weather stripping around your windows. Cracked and peeling weather stripping allows moisture in and causes condensation. Replacing any damaged sealant or weather stripping around your windows will help prevent future issues.
Professional Options
To provide a long-term fix that’s precise and effective, it’s best to hire a professional. A professional can evaluate the right solution to window condensation.
1. Replace the Window (Or Pane)
Because the dry air between the panes has been compromised, you may need to replace the window. You can save a lot of money by replacing a single window pane instead of the whole window. In cases of rotting, it may be best to replace the whole thing. A professional can evaluate whether a single-pane replacement will do the trick.
2. Professional Cleaning
As a less-invasive alternative, a glass professional can clean the window. The process involves drilling small holes at the top and bottom corners, spraying a cleaning solution through the top hole, and sucking it out through the bottom. An expert will then seal the holes with vent plugs, allowing air, water, and vapor to escape the window cavity freely.
DIY Vs. Hiring a Professional
DIY
- There isn’t an easy DIY fix for this issue. While you can save money by installing a new window yourself, those savings could be forfeited if the window unit is improperly installed. Additionally, other DIY methods may not be a long term fix for the issue.
Professional
- Because compromised air between panes will need to be replaced with dry gas, a professional is needed to perform the process with specialized equipment.
- If the whole window needs to be replaced, I recommend hiring a professional to ensure it’s installed correctly.
My Recommendation: It’s best to hire a professional. If a seal has broken or been compromised, a professional to repair or replace your double-pane windows.
Final Thoughts
Dealing with condensation in your double-pane windows can be frustrating, but there are solutions. The first step is understanding that while some DIY methods can offer temporary relief, addressing the root cause often requires a professional. Start with simple steps to reduce indoor humidity, like decreasing the moisture levels in your home, especially in high-humidity areas like bathrooms. Take preventative measures like inspecting and replacing any damaged sealant or weatherstripping around your windows.
If these methods don’t solve the problem, it’s time to consider professional help. Experts can provide a long-term fix. They can replace the moist air with dry air or replace the entire window or just a single pane. They also have the tools and expertise to make sure the job is done right, protecting your warranty.
By taking these steps, you can keep your windows clear, maintain comfort and save energy. Whether you opt for DIY methods or professional help, addressing window condensation promptly will help preserve your windows.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will condensation between panes go away?
Condensation between window panes won’t go away on its own due to the lack of airflow, often leading to mold growth, which can harm your health and cause indoor allergy symptoms.
Is there a DIY fix for condensation in a double-pane window?
There are several options for fixing condensation in a double-pane window. These include using a dehumidifier, applying heat, and fixing cracked weather stripping.
Should I hire a professional to fix foggy windows?
Because compromised air between panes will need to be replaced with dry gas, a professional is needed to perform the process with specialized equipment.