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Condensation
It should be understood that double-glazing does not completely eradicate condensation and in some cases simply transfers it elsewhere in the property.
With your old and possibly draughty windows the moist air that is generated within the property would naturally head for the cold areas of the windows but would also have an escape route through the draughty ill fitting frames.
When new windows are installed they will be draught proofed to a much higher degree and therefore will not allow moist air to escape. It is essential therefore to ensure that you ventilate your house well after the installation and continue to do so for some time.
The windows you have had installed do not contain moisture, so it follows that if you are getting condensation, it does not necessarily indicate a fault with your installation.
Bedrooms are the most likely places for condensation to occur. With double-glazing and central heating it is essential to maintain a constant temperature throughout the property to avoid creating hot or cold spots. Leave doors ajar if possible.
Moisture generated is forced to the ceiling by the heat rising and will fall in front of the window area. If the windows are closed the moisture will manifest itself at the bottom of the frames. It's often possible to feel what appears to be a draught on or near to the window sill if you place your hands upon it. However, this may simply be the cold moist air falling.
This can be very relevant with patio doors. A cold down draught can cause the sensation of cold feet, because a heat source could pull the cold air from the bottom of the patio doors across the room. The more you turn up the heat source the worse the effect could be.
If possible, try to open a window at high level in a ground floor room and one at high level in a first floor room. Any moisture that is generated downstairs should be forced up towards the ceiling naturally by heat rising. The open window at high level should force the moisture to travel away from the windows in search of escape. It will not go directly out of the open window as air is entering from it; however, you can determine the route you wish it to take.
This would be preferably upstairs and towards and through the open window on the first floor. Although air is also entering through this window, the force behind the thermal air from downstairs would force the moist air out of the open window, and take the moisture from the first floor with it.
Slot vents can also be included within the new frames that will allow a trickle of air, dependent on the size of the vent. These vents could allow up to 30,000mm of air exchange every hour.
Ring FREE on -:
0800 298 5631
Or write to-:
Derek Waller Services, Office 7 C/o Access Space, Harborne Lane, Selly Oak
Birmingham, B29 6SN