Condensation between window panes in Palomar Mountain, CA
Condensation or fog that forms between the two panes of glass, not on the interior or exterior surface, is a sign the insulated glass unit's seal has failed. This is different from ordinary condensation on the room-side surface of a window, which is a humidity issue, not a broken seal.
What causes it
- Failed IGU seal letting humid air into the sealed cavity between panes
- Loss of the argon or krypton gas fill through the same seal failure
- Age: most IGU seals reach the end of their service life somewhere between 10 and 20 years
How it gets fixed
- IGU glass replacement when the frame and sash are sound
- Full window replacement when the frame is also compromised
Why this shows up in Backcountry San Diego
Backcountry between-pane condensation sometimes appears alongside frost patterns on very cold mornings, which is a sign the seal has failed and the argon fill is gone.
Condensation between panes FAQs for Palomar Mountain
What is the difference between condensation on the glass and condensation between the panes?
Surface condensation (on the room-side glass) is a humidity and temperature issue that can be managed with ventilation or a warmer glass surface. Condensation between the panes means the sealed unit itself has failed and the glass needs to be replaced.
Can I dry out condensation between the panes?
No. The cavity is sealed and not accessible without replacing the glass unit. Any moisture inside will keep recurring because the seal that is supposed to keep it out has already failed.
Does condensation between panes mean I lost the argon fill too?
Almost always, yes. The same seal failure that lets humid air in also lets the insulating gas fill escape, so the window has lost both its clarity and part of its thermal performance.
Is condensation between panes common in Palomar Mountain?
Backcountry between-pane condensation sometimes appears alongside frost patterns on very cold mornings, which is a sign the seal has failed and the argon fill is gone.
Dealing with condensation between panes in Palomar Mountain?
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