Condensation between the panes: is your thermos unsealed?
Before replacing an entire window, you need to know where the problem actually lies. In many cases, the frame is still good: it's only the sealed glass unit — the double glazing — that needs to be replaced.
✓Simple diagnosis
✓Frame preserved when possible
✓Montreal and Laval
experience
warranty on thermoses
residential service
Are you not sure if the problem is with the thermos?
A simple discussion can help you figure out what to do first.
You clean your window, but the condensation remains? If the film, droplets or whitish appearance are found between If both windows are dirty and it is impossible to wipe them from the inside or outside, the problem usually does not come from the humidity of the room.
This is often a unsealed thermos The perimeter seal of the insulating glass unit is no longer airtight. The good news? If the frame and hardware are still in good condition, there's no need to replace the entire window.
Quick response
Condensation between the panes of glass is a classic sign of failure of the seal in insulating glazing. Natural Resources Canada indicates that when the seal is broken and condensation forms between the panes, the insulating glass unit must be replaced. In other words, when the frame is still sound, the double-glazed unit can often be replaced without replacing the entire window.
The correct diagnosis
Whether it's condensation inside, outside, or between the windows, it's not the same problem.
Before requesting a repair, start by identifying On what surface is the moisture found?This is the easiest way to avoid mistaking a broken thermos for a simple indoor humidity problem.
On the inside of the window
The condensation you might wipe away in your home is often related to indoor humidity, a cold window, or poor air circulation near the window. It is not, in itself, proof that a double-glazed window has broken its seal.
On the outside of the window
A thin layer of condensation may form on high-performance glazing, particularly at certain times of day. It is located on the exterior and will disappear when conditions change.
Between the two panes of glass
If you can't reach the condensation because it's trapped inside the sealed unit, the thermos seal may be compromised. This is precisely when replacing the sealed unit becomes necessary.
Understanding the thermos
What happens when a thermos comes unsealed?
A thermos — also called sealed glazing Or insulating glazing unit — is composed of at least two glass panes separated by an interlayer, then sealed around their perimeter. Depending on its design, the space between the panes can contain an inert gas such as argon, and the glass can receive a low-emissivity (Low-E) treatment to improve thermal performance.
Natural Resources Canada describes an insulating glass unit as a set of panes of glass separated by a spacer and sealed to form an airtight cavity. When the perimeter seal deteriorates, moisture can penetrate this enclosed space. This is when fog, droplets, or deposits that are impossible to clean appear.
Important : A dehumidifier can help with condensation. on the inner surface of a window, but it does not repair a broken seal and cannot clean the sealed space between two panes of glass.
Comfort and efficiency
Why not just live with a fogged-up window?
The first problem is obvious: the view becomes dull and the window looks constantly dirty. But a faulty double-glazed unit is also a window component that no longer functions as intended.
Heat loss from a home can occur through and around windows and patio doors.
part of the residential electricity bill can be attributed to heating, according to Hydro-Québec.
Source: Hydro-Québec. This data relates to all the windows and heating in a home; it does not mean that a single defective thermos is solely responsible for these losses.
It is therefore advisable to have defective windows checked, especially when there are several. The aim is not to promise a specific saving on your bill, but to restore a sealed glazing unit that is suitable for the existing window.
To watch
5 signs that it's time to have your thermos checked
Your window deserves inspection if you notice:
01Fog or droplets between the windows that you cannot wipe from either side.
02A whitish film or persistent traces inside the sealed unit.
03A window that looks colder or less comfortable than comparable glazing in the house.
04A cracked, damaged, or otherwise faulty thermos The surrounding area appears deteriorated..
05Several windows of the same age that are beginning to show the same symptoms.
Avoid unnecessary expense
Should the thermos be replaced, or the entire window?
This is the most important question. The double-glazed unit is only one part of the window. If the glazing is the only defective element, replacing the frame, mechanisms, and finishes may be unnecessary.
The key principle to remember: Replace the component that is actually defective. Natural Resources Canada recommends separately assessing the glazing, sash, weatherstripping, hardware, and frame. If the glazing is in poor condition but the frame is sound, replacing a sealed glazing unit may be a suitable option.
How it works
Replacing a thermos without replacing the entire window
Replacing a double-glazed window is a targeted intervention. The glazing is manufactured to the dimensions of the existing opening, then installed in the frame, which is retained if its condition allows.
Evaluate the problem
It is confirmed that the symptom originates from the sealed unit and not simply from internal humidity, a weatherstrip, or a problem around the frame.
Take the measurements and identify the glazing
The thickness, dimensions and relevant characteristics of the thermos must match the existing window.
Remove the defective unit
The old sealed glazing is removed while retaining the frame if it is still in good condition.
Install the new thermos
The new sealed unit is put in place and adjusted to restore a clear, clean and functional window.
Not to be confused
Three misconceptions that often cost too much
"A fogged-up window = a ruined window"
Not necessarily. If moisture is trapped between the panes of glass, the sealed glazing may be the problem, even if the frame still has a good lifespan.
"I'll wait until the condensation clears."
Visibility can vary with temperature and sunlight, but a faulty peripheral seal does not simply reseal itself when the weather becomes drier.
"All the windows need to be replaced at the same time."
Each opening can be assessed individually. It is possible to prioritize genuinely defective units rather than replacing them without a diagnosis.
Montreal and Laval
Why diagnosis is particularly important in Quebec
Residential windows in Quebec must cope with significant temperature variations throughout the seasons. A high-performing system depends on more than just the glass: the airtightness of the sealed unit, the spacers, the weatherstripping, the frame, and the quality of the installation all contribute to comfort.
That is why a targeted approach is often more logical than a systematic replacement. Thermos Change Inc. specializes in replacing sealed glazing on existing windowswith over 20 years of experience in the field and a warranty of up to 10 years on thermoses.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about unsealed thermoses
How can I be sure if the condensation is between the two panes of glass?
Clean both accessible surfaces. If the film, droplets, or marks remain visible and appear trapped in the cavity between the panels, the problem likely lies within the sealed unit. Further inspection will confirm the diagnosis.
Can a dehumidifier fix a fogged-up thermos?
No. Reducing the humidity in the house can help when condensation forms on the inside surface of the glass. It doesn't repair a broken seal and doesn't remove moisture already trapped between the panes of glass.
Do I need to replace the frame if the thermos is unsealed?
Not if the frame is still solid, straight, and functional. Replacing the double-glazed unit is precisely about preserving the sound components of the window and replacing the defective glass. If the frame shows signs of rot, significant warping, or a structural problem, the situation must be assessed differently.
How much does it cost to replace a thermos?
The price depends on factors such as dimensions, thickness, glazing type, accessibility, and the number of units to be replaced. A quote is the best way to get a price tailored to your specific window rather than a generic estimate.
Can multiple double-glazed units be replaced without changing all the windows?
Yes, when the frames in question are in good condition. Each unit can be assessed according to its condition, which makes it possible to target the truly defective glazing instead of automatically replacing all the windows in the house.
What guarantee is offered?
Changement de Thermos Inc. offers a warranty of up to 10 years on its thermos units. The terms and conditions applicable to your project can be confirmed at the time of the quote.
Do you see condensation between your windows?
Before investing in a complete window, have it checked to see if the problem can be solved by replacing only the double-glazed unit. Service available in Montreal and Laval.
Over 20 years of experience · Up to 10-year warranty on thermoses
Thermos Inc. Change
Replacement of sealed glazing on existing windows · Montreal and Laval
450-634-9525
