Be On The Lookout For: How Misty Window Is Taking Over The World And What Can We Do About It
What Causes a Misty Window?
It can be quite frustrating when the windows of your house or apartment get smudges. Fortunately, it is easy to solve and prevent when you know the cause of the problem.
Many people suggest using dehumidifiers to eliminate the moisture. However, this does not address the root of the problem that is seal failure.
Moisture Buildup
The most frequent cause of misty or foggy windows is moisture, particularly in older homes that have double- or single-glazed window frames. The windows were designed to stop cold air from entering your home while keeping heat inside. However, they can result in condensation and moisture build-up. If left unchecked this can lead to damage to the glass or glazed surface of your window which could lead to the need for a more expensive repair or replacement of the window.
misted double glazing of water on windows is usually caused by the interaction of warm and cold air. This is common in homes with high levels of humidity however, it can also happen when the seal of your window is damaged or faulty.
Every day life generates a shocking amount of indoor moisture each time you boil water or cook food adding four or five pints to the air. Every shower, tumble dryer use and watering of house plants adds more. Even breathing in and out creates tiny amounts of water vapour. The air in your house is saturated with water vapour and as it cools, it will liquify any surface it comes in contact with including your windows.
If you have a triple- or double-pane window and notice condensation between the panes, it's likely that the seal is broken or damaged. Most likely, there is a spacer between two panes of glass and it is designed to suck any moisture that might be in the space. This spacer is typically invisible, but you can spot it by shining a flashlight on the window and looking for dark streaks or dark spots.
When the spacer fails it is not unusual to discover black mould in the area, which is visually unattractive and could pose a health risk. Mould is difficult to remove, and it can discolour the plaster walls that surround the affected window. If not treated, it could cause respiratory problems asthma, skin irritations.
Condensation
Condensation happens when warm, moisture-laden air comes into contact with a cooler object, such as windows. The temperature changes cause the air's moisture to transform from a gas to a liquid. This is normal, however If you're experiencing frequent condensation it might indicate a problem with indoor humidity, ventilation levels or window quality. The solution is by adjusting these elements.
Moisture buildup is the main reason for windows to become foggy. If your windows have double or single glazing, and a sturdy seal then moisture from the inside isn't likely to get through and cause condensation. If the windows are older or have seals that are damaged, or if you live in an area that is humid, moisture will more likely escape through the gaps.
If the moisture isn't removed it can build up on the glass, creating fog to appear on the window. Fogged windows can cause more than an unattractive appearance. They can also trigger many problems inside the home. Moisture can cause damp spots which can breed mould and discolour surfaces like wallpaper or paint. It can also worsen conditions like asthma as well as respiratory and allergy infections.
It is essential to address damp as soon as it begins to appear since if it is left untreated it can cause structural damage to your home. It can also promote the development of fungal and bacterial infections. It could even lead to the destruction of wooden structures such as floors and roofs.
You might have heard suggestions like using defogging spray or wiping the windows with shaving cream, but these are just temporary solutions. These solutions are intended to remove the moisture, not fix the issue that's causing the condensation.
Heat Loss
Windows are more than windows to let in light and connect to the outside. They also function as insulation for our homes. In time, they will lose their insulation properties if the seals are damaged. This can lead to the appearance of hazy windows, which are not just unattractive, but also cause a significant loss of energy.
If the glass in your double-glazed window begins to become cloudy, it indicates that the seals between the panes have failed and that moisture is allowed to enter the space. This can be caused by various factors, such as sunlight, water, changing temperatures and barometric pressure. Over time, the seals will break down. This is the reason you should replace your double-glazed windows as quickly when they begin to mist.
As the warm air from inside your home comes into contact with the cold glass's surface, it creates condensation that causes the formation of fog or mist on the windows. This is because the dew point lies below the glass's cold surface. The dew point is the temperature at which the moisture present in the air transforms into water vapour. The water vapour in warmer air will not have a place to go, so it will fall onto the colder surface on your double-glazed window. It will remain there until it is evaporated.
There are a variety of ways to stop these issues from happening like using exhaust fans that are designed to let the moisture out. This can help to reduce the humidity in your home, which is one of the primary causes of misty windows. Also, removing all plants from your windowsill and opening windows as wide as possible will also help to balance humidity levels. If the problem continues however, it might be beneficial to invest in a top quality dehumidifier which will help maintain a low humidity and prevent fog or mist from forming on your windows.
If you're looking to replace your windows it's also worth investing in double-glazed windows that are energy efficient. According to the Energy Saving Trust old single-glazed windows account for about 25% of heat loss in homes. The upgrade of your windows to energy efficient PVC double-glazed windows can reduce this by as much as 75 percent.
Damage to the Glass
Window glass that is damaged is not only a visual affront it can also be a nuisance and attract unwanted intruders. Understanding the root of these issues is important so that you can stop these issues from occurring again.
Misty windows are a common issue, particularly in winter. The cause of moisture buildup is usually by inadequate double or single glazing, which may allow moisture to penetrate the frame and glass. This can occur due to various factors, including high indoor humidity levels and temperature variations.
Quality windows have frames and glass that is insulated and designed for better energy efficiency. They often have double-panes, argon gas and a seal that aids in reducing heat loss. In time, this will help to save money on energy bills and make a home more comfortable. Older windows with single panes might have a range of problems which reduce their efficiency. They may need to be replaced to save energy and increase the comfort of your home.
Many people who have foggy windows try to fix the problem themselves. It is common to recommend placing a dehumidifier close to the window to try to remove excess moisture. This isn't necessarily a bad idea however it doesn't address the root issue which is that the window seals aren't working.
Vinegar and water can be used to clean windows. This solution can be sprayed over the glass and wiped down with a microfibre fabric or squeegee. After the surface has dried it can be buffed and polished to remove any streaks.
It is essential to repair or replace damaged seals on your windows as fast as possible. This will improve the insulation of your home and avoid future repairs. Portage Glass & Mirror will inspect your windows thoroughly and recommend a plan of steps to restore their appearance and functionality.