condensation

Condensation: What It Is & How to Stop It

/0 Comments/in /by

Condensation can be a common problem in many homes, especially during the colder months. It’s more than just an inconvenience — excessive condensation can damage your windows, and walls, and even lead to mould growth, which may cause health issues. If you’ve been wondering how to stop condensation on windows, this blog will provide all the tips and insights you need.

What is Condensation?

Condensation occurs when moist air comes into contact with a cold surface, such as a window. The moisture in the air cools down and forms water droplets on the glass. This is a common issue in homes, particularly during winter, when the difference between indoor and outdoor temperatures is more extreme.

Condensation often appears on windows, especially those with poor insulation or inadequate ventilation. If left untreated, it can lead to the growth of mould, which thrives in damp conditions.

Condensation on window

What Causes Condensation on Windows?

Several factors contribute to the build-up of condensation on windows:

  • Temperature differences: Warm indoor air meets the cold surface of the windows, causing moisture to form.
  • High humidity levels: Daily activities such as cooking, showering, and even breathing release moisture into the air.
  • Inadequate ventilation: Poor airflow traps moist air inside, which eventually condenses on colder surfaces like windows.

In homes where condensation is a constant issue, it’s crucial to understand these causes to find effective solutions.

How to Stop Condensation on Windows

Stopping condensation on windows requires a combination of improving insulation and reducing indoor humidity levels. Here are several steps you can take:

  1. Install Double or Triple Glazing:
    Double or triple-glazed windows help maintain a higher temperature inside, reducing the chance of condensation. These windows come with energy-efficient glass and an insulated gap between the panes, preventing heat from escaping while keeping the interior glass warmer.
  2. Improve Ventilation:
    Good ventilation is crucial for preventing condensation. In moisture-heavy rooms like the kitchen and bathroom, make sure to open windows or use extractor fans. Proper airflow helps reduce the humidity levels, making it harder for condensation to form on windows. You can also use dehumidifiers in areas prone to moisture.
  3. Use Insulating Curtains:
    Thick curtains can help keep the cold air out and the warm air in, preventing the glass from cooling down too much and reducing the chance of condensation forming.
  4. Control Room Temperature:
    Keeping your home at a consistent temperature prevents rapid cooling, which contributes to condensation. Avoid sharp drops in temperature, especially overnight.

double glazed windows

How to Stop Condensation on Windows Overnight

Many homeowners experience condensation on their windows first thing in the morning. This is because, during the night, the temperature drops, and the moisture from breathing can settle on the windows. To prevent this:

  • Ensure proper ventilation in the bedroom by leaving a window slightly open or using a dehumidifier.
  • Use thermal or double-glazed windows to keep your windows warmer throughout the night.

How to Prevent Condensation on Walls

Condensation isn’t just limited to windows — it can also appear on walls. To prevent condensation on walls, ensure good airflow throughout your home. Keep furniture a few inches away from walls to allow for proper air circulation. Additionally, avoid overfilling wardrobes and cupboards to let air move freely.

How to Get Rid of Condensation Inside Double-Glazed Windows

If you notice condensation inside the sealed unit of your double-glazed windows, it usually indicates a seal failure. This means the insulating gas between the panes has escaped, allowing moisture to enter. In this case, it’s essential to have the window professionally inspected and potentially replaced. You may be able to repair the seal, but often a replacement unit is required to resolve the issue permanently.

Final Thoughts

Condensation is a common issue but one that can be managed with the right approach. By improving ventilation, upgrading your windows, and maintaining a consistent temperature, you can greatly reduce the likelihood of condensation forming on your windows and walls. Following these steps will not only improve the comfort of your home but also help protect your property from the damage condensation can cause.

If you need professional assistance or advice on upgrading your windows to prevent condensation, Select Windows offers expert services tailored to keep your home dry and comfortable year-round.

double glazed windows

Types of Glass: The Ultimate Guide

/0 Comments/in /by

Whether you’re looking for enhanced noise reduction, extra durability, or a unique design, there’s a glass option to suit your needs. Here’s a guide to the different types of glass available to help you make the best choice for your windows and doors.

Stained Glass

Stained Glass

Stained glass is a versatile and visually striking option that offers a broad spectrum of design possibilities for both windows and doors. Whether you prefer intricate, classic motifs or sleek, modern patterns, stained glass can transform the look of your home with its unique artistry. It allows you to infuse personality into your living space, adding vibrant colours and intricate detailing that draw the eye.

This type of glass not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your home but also retains the timeless beauty associated with traditional stained glass, bringing a touch of elegance and individuality to any room. Its customisable nature makes it a perfect choice for homeowners looking to make a bold, yet tasteful, design statement.

Toughened Glass

TOUGHENED GLASS

Toughened glass is a durable and safety-enhanced option available in a range of thicknesses, typically between 4mm and 10mm. The glass undergoes a specialised thermal treatment process, which dramatically increases its strength, making it significantly tougher than standard glass. This makes it ideal for areas of the home where safety is a priority, such as doors, low-level windows, or high-traffic areas. When toughened glass breaks, it doesn’t shatter into sharp, dangerous shards but instead crumbles into small, blunt pieces, minimising the risk of injury.

Its robust structure, combined with its safety features, makes it perfect for homes with children or in locations prone to accidents. Additionally, toughened glass can withstand extreme temperatures, making it an excellent choice for areas that experience high heat or sudden temperature changes.

Solar Control Glass

Solar control glass is ideal for sun-filled rooms, as it helps regulate heat. By reflecting or absorbing more solar energy than standard glass, it keeps your space bright without allowing excessive heat during the summer months. Invisible rays are blocked, while visible sunlight fills the room.

Obscure Glass

For enhanced privacy, obscure glass is an excellent choice. With a variety of classic and contemporary designs available, it provides privacy without sacrificing light. Obscure glass is also a great option for internal rooms where more natural light is needed.obscure glass

Double Glazed Glass

A+13 Rated Units

Double glazing offers superior energy efficiency, featuring Linear’s six-chamber frames for maximum thermal performance. Each unit is filled with argon gas and uses an Energyplus outer frame that’s insulated within its multi-chambers.

double glazed windows

  • Optiwhite Low Iron Glass Outer Pane: This glass provides high light transmission and boosts solar gain, bringing free heat from the sun into your home.
  • Warm Edge Space Bar: Positioned between the two glass panes, this spacer is 22 times more efficient than aluminum at preventing heat transfer around the edges.
  • Pilkington K Glass S Inner Pane: A hard-coated low-emissivity glass that reflects heat back into your home while letting in free solar energy for passive heat gain.

Triple Glazed Glass

triple glazed glassA++21 Premier Plus

For the ultimate in energy efficiency, triple glazing offers unparalleled insulation with a 36mm sealed unit. Like double glazing, these units are filled with argon gas and feature a highly insulated Energyplus outer frame.

  • Outer Pane: Optiwhite glass maximizes light transmission and boosts solar gain, drawing in free heat from the sun.
  • Middle Pane: This pane features the trusted Pilkington K Glass coating that reflects internal heat while allowing free solar energy into the home.
  • Inside Pane: The Low E high-performance glass reflects heat back into your home, further improving thermal efficiency.

Whether you’re looking for the perfect glass for privacy, energy efficiency, or aesthetic appeal, Select Windows has a wide range of options to fit your needs. Get in touch today to explore how our glass solutions can enhance your home!

Fauste orangery bifold doors roof 4135

ORANGERY VS CONSERVATORY

/0 Comments/in /by

Adding extra living space to your home is a fantastic way to improve its value and functionality. Two popular options for this are orangeries and conservatories, but they differ in several key ways. So, how do you choose between the two? Let’s explore the differences, benefits, and which option may better suit your home.

Orangeries Walsall Wood and Burton-on-TrentWhat Is an Orangery?

An orangery is a traditional style of home extension that dates back to the 17th century, originally designed for growing exotic plants and fruit trees. Orangeries are characterised by a mix of brick or stone walls and large windows, creating a sturdy yet light-filled space. Unlike conservatories, they typically feature a partially glazed roof and more solid wall sections, offering a balance between light and insulation.

conservatory company Sutton ColdfieldWhat Is a Conservatory?

A conservatory is a structure primarily made of glass, often attached to the side of a home, providing a clear view of the garden. Conservatories typically have a higher ratio of glass to solid wall than orangeries and feature a fully glazed roof. This design allows for maximum natural light, creating a bright, open space that feels like a natural extension of the outdoors.

What Is the Difference Between an Orangery and a Conservatory?

Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the key differences between orangeries and conservatories:

  1. Design and Structure:

    • Orangery: Orangeries combine brick or stone walls with large windows and a solid, partially glazed roof. They tend to have a more substantial construction, making them feel like a permanent part of the home. The roof is often flat with a central lantern that brings in natural light while maintaining better insulation.
    • Conservatory: Conservatories are mostly glass, with minimal brickwork and a fully glazed roof. They have a lighter structure and provide a panoramic view of your garden. This glass-heavy design allows for maximum light, but it also makes conservatories more susceptible to temperature fluctuations.

  2. Insulation and Year-Round Use:

    • Orangery: Thanks to their solid walls and partially glazed roof, orangeries provide better insulation and are more suitable for year-round use. They maintain consistent temperatures, making them comfortable during both summer and winter.
    • Conservatory: Conservatories, being mostly glass, can heat up quickly in the summer and become quite cold in the winter unless properly insulated. Modern glazing techniques, such as double glazing or solar control glass, can help improve insulation, but they still tend to be more temperature-sensitive than orangeries.

  3. Cost:

    • Orangery: Orangeries are generally more expensive due to their more complex structure, materials like brick or stone, and higher level of insulation. Their construction is closer to that of a traditional room, and this is reflected in the price.
    • Conservatory: Conservatories are typically more affordable, as they require fewer materials and are faster to build. They offer a cost-effective solution if you’re looking to add living space without the larger investment of an orangery.

  4. Aesthetic and Style:

    • Orangery: Orangeries tend to have a more traditional, elegant style, often blending seamlessly with older properties or those seeking a classic look. The mix of solid walls and windows gives them a more permanent and sophisticated appearance.
    • Conservatory: Conservatories provide a modern, airy aesthetic, making them ideal for homeowners looking for a sleek, minimalist extension. The abundance of glass allows for a contemporary design that maximizes light and space.

  5. Planning Permission:

    • Orangery: Due to their more substantial construction, orangeries are more likely to require planning permission, especially if the structure significantly alters the appearance of your home or exceeds specific size limits.
    • Conservatory: Conservatories often fall under permitted development rights, meaning they may not require planning permission if they meet certain criteria, such as size restrictions and placement.

ultraroof conservatory

Which Suits Your Home: Orangery or Conservatory?

The choice between an orangery and a conservatory depends on your lifestyle, budget, and how you plan to use the space.

  • Choose an Orangery if:

    • You want a permanent, well-insulated room that feels like a natural extension of your home.
    • You prefer a more traditional or elegant style that blends with the architecture of older properties.
    • You’re looking for a space that can be comfortably used year-round.

  • Choose a Conservatory if:

    • You’re looking for a cost-effective way to add extra living space.
    • You want a bright, airy room that allows you to enjoy garden views and natural light.
    • You have a modern property and prefer a sleek, contemporary design.

Both orangeries and conservatories offer unique benefits, and the right choice depends on your specific needs. An orangery provides a more substantial, well-insulated extension that can be used all year long, making it ideal for homeowners seeking a permanent addition. A conservatory, on the other hand, offers an affordable, light-filled space perfect for enjoying your garden and brightening up your home.

At Select Windows, we offer a wide range of bespoke orangeries and conservatories to suit your style and needs. Get in touch today to discuss which option is best for your home and start your extension journey with us!