On a dual-pane window, you want more than a half inch of air space between the two panes of glass because that air space is where you get a lot of your insulation value. Between those two panes of glass, there has to be an airtight seal, otherwise, the moisture that’s in the air can get in between the two panes. If you are seeing condensation in your windows, that means the airtight seal is no longer there.
In a case like this, moisture keeps leaking into the space between the panels and starts etching the glass. It may look as if there is something like frost coating the window.
You may also notice that the old insulated window is unable to keep heat or cold out of your home the way it once did. Sometimes this problem can be fixed, but you will typically have to replace the whole glass panel, and the job must be done by a professional. The old, insulated dual-pane panel comes out and a new one is put in.
If you are looking to save money, there may be other solutions that involve drilling into the dual pane – this type of fix may work but sometimes you can’t fix it and you’ll have to replace the old window. Depending on the age of the window, it may be best to spend the little extra money to gain a new, quality window with a fresh warranty.
Listen to the broadcast where Romey answers this question live on-air!
You can listen to Segment 2 below for specific information and suggested fixes prompted by a homeowner email about a dual pane window with a crack in the seal and condensation in the air space. You can also listen to the whole Open Lines segment to learn more from homeowners and guests of the broadcast!
