Things to consider when replacing your windows in Ottawa
How To Handle Window Condensation
Solutions for a Clearer View
Dealing with window condensation can be frustrating for homeowners, especially when it fogs up your view and compromises energy efficiency. Whether you’re struggling with condensation inside, outside, or between your window panes, Centennial Glass in Ottawa provides effective, lasting solutions to restore clarity and improve your home’s comfort. With expertise in sealed unit replacement and new window installations, Centennial Glass goes beyond temporary fixes, helping homeowners make the best choice for their long-term investment.
Listen to the podcast on The Chat Circle. They discuss defogging vs sealed unit replacement for repairing foggy windows.
Use the slider to see the difference between compromised windows and a window repaired with sealed unit replacement.
Use the slider to see the difference between compromised windows and a window repaired with sealed unit replacement.
Understanding Window Condensation
Window condensation forms when humid air meets a cold surface, leading to water droplets that obstruct your view and may even indicate compromised window insulation. Here’s a breakdown of the types of condensation and what they mean:
- Interior Condensation: This occurs on the inside of the window and is common in winter when warm indoor air meets the cold glass surface.
- Exterior Condensation: Typically forms outside the window during warmer months, especially in the morning, when the cool glass meets humid outdoor air.
- Between-Pane Condensation: This type is a clear sign of a seal failure, allowing moisture to get trapped between the panes. It not only obstructs your view but also means your window’s insulating capabilities are compromised.
Solutions For Window Condensation
For those dealing with foggy windows, Centennial Glass offers a range of services tailored to addressing condensation issues effectively. Here’s how each option compares:
Defogging: A Short-Term Fix
Defogging, a temporary service that aims to remove condensation from between window panes, involves drilling small holes in the glass, injecting a cleaning solution to remove moisture, and then sealing the holes. This restores the window’s appearance, but it’s important to note that defogging does not restore the window’s insulation properties. As the seals are still compromised, the window’s energy efficiency remains low, and condensation may return over time.
Defogging is often considered a stop-gap measure. It can bring temporary relief, but it won’t address the lost thermal insulation caused by the failed seal. For homeowners looking for a more permanent solution, sealed unit replacement or full window replacement is the better investment.
Sealed Unit Replacement: Recommended Solution
For long-term results and restored energy efficiency, sealed unit replacement (also called Thermopane replacement) is an ideal solution. This service replaces only the sealed glass unit within the existing frame, making it a more cost-effective option that retains the window’s insulating properties. By replacing the compromised unit with a new, energy-efficient pane, you get back both clear views and effective insulation without the need for a complete window overhaul.
Centennial Glass specializes in professional sealed unit replacements, ensuring precision installation and handling of the glass. This service not only solves condensation issues but also renews your window’s thermal barrier, helping reduce energy costs.
Full Window Replacement: The Best Long-Term Solution
If your windows are older or if the frame is showing wear, a full window replacement may be the smartest choice. Upgrading to new, energy-efficient windows brings substantial benefits: increased insulation, enhanced comfort, and lower energy bills. Centennial Glass’s new window installation service includes custom measurements, ordering, and installation, ensuring a seamless and high-quality result. Plus, new windows come with improved sealing technology, making them less prone to future condensation.
Newer windows are built with advanced insulation, which not only reduces condensation but also helps lower heating and cooling costs year-round. Centennial Glass offers a range of options that can be tailored to your home’s style and budget, and they handle everything from removal to installation to ensure a perfect fit.
Why Choose Sealed Unit Replacement or New Windows Over Defogging?
While defogging may seem like an affordable quick fix, it doesn’t restore the insulating properties of your window. Sealed unit replacement and complete window replacement both offer energy-saving benefits that defogging simply cannot achieve. With Centennial Glass, you’re choosing a solution that enhances both your view and your home’s energy performance. By investing in sealed units or new windows, you gain clarity, comfort, and efficiency that lasts for years to come.
Contact Centennial Glass for Lasting Window Solutions in Ottawa
Condensation doesn’t have to be a recurring issue. With Centennial Glass, Ottawa homeowners can rely on expert solutions that deliver clear, fog-free views and better energy efficiency. Contact Centennial Glass today for a consultation and find out how sealed unit replacements or new windows can keep your home looking great and performing efficiently year-round.