Wednesday, July 16, 2008

Not a Cloud In The Sky, They Are In My Windows

As a Handyman I receive a lot of questions about windows. This example is very typical of the questions I receive;

“We own an older house that, until six months ago, had single-pane, wood windows. We had all new double hung, double pane windows installed the first of the year”.

“Recently we have noticed that the larger window in the living room is cloudy. This is very noticeable in the morning, because the sun shines directly in this window. We tried to clean the window, but it appears that the cloudiness is inside of the double panes”.
“Is this normal for this type of window or should we call the window company”?

Cloudiness between the double panes is a problem. A vacuum exists between the double panes, and the seals ensure it. If cloudiness or moisture is present between the panes, it means that the seal is no longer doing its job. Depending on the size and the style of the window, the repair can be costly.
Since the windows are less than a year old, they are probably still under warranty. Report this to the window company as broken seals. Also it is a good idea to check all of the other windows for cloudiness.

I have always encouraged my clients to use quality products on any home repair. If you use cheap low quality products, you will be replacing them much sooner than you want to. I always say, “you will pay now or you will pay later”. Quality product cost more in the beginning, but will save you money and aggravation in the long run. It will also give you more time to go fishing.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Also to note: In your case the seal of the window is most likely broke and should be under warrenty. I am often asked why moisture builds up on the interior surface of the glass. (I thought this be a nice on/off subject comment) This is caused when the interior humidity and the difference between indoor and outside air temperature. If the humidity in your house is low then the chance of condisation on your windows is low. Energy effcient windows often have low U-factors result in inside glass temperatures much closer to the room air temperature.

good luck