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.
Serious condensation requires more than a quick dry out when it come to windows. It used to be that there were tracks on the bottom of the window that had weep holes that went to the exterior. Many companies are using secondary glazing to reduce the condensation. This may only result in the wooden frame rotting out.
It your are not sure how much condensation is too much, if you notice the follow, you need to do something about it soon. The windows stay fogged all day, there is a musky smell, the condensation is dripping down the windows, mildew is growing, and discoloration has started on the walls. You may not see anything but you do notice the smell, means there is some hidden damage.
If you see that you need to reduce some condensation, there are some things that can be done before damage occurs. Open an outside window of bathroom after shower so the moisture can escape through the window, not into the rest of the house. Dry as many clothes as possible out side on a cloths line, wet jackets should be hung out on a covered porch to dry out, using electric fuel is dryer than gas. These simple life style changes will help.
Secondary glazing and condensation is not always easy to fix. Sometimes secondary glazing can make the matters worse as it traps the moisture in the wood window frame. It is important to make sure the condensation gets taken care of before it causes more problems. Secondary glazing does help the condensation but will not get rid of it totally. Preventive strategies are necessary.
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