Secondary glazing and condensation, are relative in that the glazing is done to reduce condensation on the windows. It will never eliminate it completely but does reduce it if the glazing is done correctly. Secondary glazing is placing a sheet of glass or plastic over the window to help reduce noise and condensation. It is less expensive than replacing the whole window.
The issues with secondary glazing is that it does not completely get rid of condensation and the moisture can cause wood rot from the inside frame. The common cause of condensation is steam, from cooking or bathing. Condensation is more common in winter when the external air is lower than internal.
The moisture will cause a great deal of damage if it does not dry out in a timely manner. The moisture causes wood to swell and it promotes mold to grow. A musty smell will develop. At times the condensation builds up and runs down the wall, causing hidden damage that will be seen when it is to late. It is best to eliminate the moisture before any damage can occur.
If the problem of condensation can get so bad that it will not dry out. Windows used to have tracks that had little weep holes in them. The water could collect there and go through the weep holes to the exterior. Applying secondary glaze can help with the condensation but may result in the wood frame of the windows to rot out.
Some things to look for if you think you may have a problem with condensation in your home. The window staying fogged up all day, having a musky smell, the condensation is running down the walls, you notice mildew and some discoloration on the walls. Sometimes the problems are not visible but the smell is evident.
To eliminate or reduce the condensation in your home, their are some steps to follow. After bath or shower, ventilate the bathroom to the outside, not into the house. Drying cloths on clothes line instead of cloths dryer, hang wet jackets on a porch, increase the change of air in the premises, change fuel to electric, as it is the driest and a few of the things to help illuminant condensation.
Secondary glazing and condensation does not always work and can damage wood window frames. Keep ahead of the condensation will prevent big problems. Secondary glazing is very unlikely to eliminate all condensation, only reduce it. Preventive strategies works the best.
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