You may think that if you want added insulation in your home’s windows that secondary glazing may be the key. However, there are problems that can be caused by secondary glazing and condensation. Here is what you need to know to avoid expensive window repairs or replacement.
If you wonder why many people prefer double glazed windows in any new installations you may not know that they offer a lot of insulation against both temperature changes and sound. They are particularly useful in a room where there is a lot of glass exposed to the outside air. This can include a glassed in porch or a conservatory. Even a room with a lot of large windows can benefit from double glazed windows.
The structure of double glazed windows is quite simple. They are made up of a framework which contains two panes of glass. These are positioned quite closely to one another. During manufacturing, a layer of gas is sealed in between the two panes and this prevents any moisture from building up since it is an occupied space and there is no room for water vapor.
In secondary glazing, a second layer of glass in a slim frame is set into the inside of an existing window. This provides insulation in that there are two layers of glass. However, because the middle is not sealed in such a way that it is air tight, there can suddenly be moisture problems. Condensation can affect the window frame and cause damage.
The problem is that often there is a temperature difference between the two panes of glass. All air has moisture in it to varying degrees. Warm air can hold more moisture in the form of water vapor. When it hits a colder surface such as the outer pane of a window, it can then reform into water droplets. You will see this in the form of fog or actual water dripping down the window itself. If you have a way that the water can escape or re-evaporate before it rots a wooden window frame there is no problem. However, when water is allowed to sit on the wood it can be a huge problem especially if it continues over a long period of time.
If you want to make sure that your windows are not rotting from the inside out, you will need to make sure that there is a way for the water to escape. Vapor can escape through a gap left in an open window or it can also escape through a ventilation hole if one is provided. This can be an inexpensive option that will allow you to use secondary glazing in an area where it might not otherwise be possible. You should also make sure that the window frame is dry since damp wood can cause moisture to build up.
By taking care of your windows and ensuring that moisture does not have a chance to build up you will ensure that they will stay in top condition for as long as possible. Then, over time you can choose to convert to double glazed windows if you so choose.
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