Finesse Frame Windows

Exceptionally energy-efficient & secure

Why does condensation occur? Water vapour from kitchens, bathrooms, gas or paraffin heaters and even indoor plants can contribute to condensation. In older buildings, low indoor temperature and badly positioned radiators can cause problems. Modern draught-free insulated houses don’t have the same natural ventilation and air circulation of older houses. Where condensation occurs on glazing Condensation on the room side of the glass: the glass surface is too cold given the water vapour content of the room. Increasing the temperature or opening a window should help. Condensation in the cavity of a sealed glass unit means the seal has broken. Contact Global Customer Services on Freephone 1800 31 31 32. External condensation on the outer pane Surface condensation will appear on the outside of insulated glazing if the temperature on this face of the glazing is significantly lower than the external air temperature and if the temperature of the glass is lower than the dew point (the temperature at which water vapour becomes liquid) of the external air. The surface temperature on the outside of the glazing is dependent on:

• The heat flow from the interior passing through the glazing. This depends on the difference in temperature between the internal surface and the external surface of the glazing and the energy efficiency of the glass unit.
• The exchange, by convection, with the external air.
• Heat loss by radiation mainly to the sky. Various studies and measurements carried out show heat exchange by radiation is relatively limited in overcast weather. However, when the sky is clear at night, there are significant heat losses to the sky.

In conclusion, surface condensation on the outside of the glazing is a phenomenon that is occasionally seen at night or early morning on well insulated units. It is important to understand that this does not represent a fault in the quality of the insulated unit, on the contrary; it is proof of the superior performance of these units over older less efficient ones. It is not possible to predict where or how often it might occur. It will depend on a number of the aforementioned conditions. How to reduce condensation

• Avoid drying wet clothes inside if possible.
• Ensure all rooms are vented.
• Position radiators under windows and keep curtains at least 15-20cm clear of glass for free movement of air.
• Open windows for a few minutes each day to permit air changes.
• After a bath or shower, close the internal door and open a window for a few minutes.
• When cooking, close the internal door and open a window if possible.
• Install extraction fans in kitchens or bathrooms if you have persistent problems.
• In conservatories, trickle ventilation in the wall, eaves and ridge zone can help.

If you require more detailed information on condensation, freephone 1800 31 31 32 and ask for a condensation booklet to be sent out to you.

To keep your Global windows and doors looking great, clean the PVC or Composite / Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) sections once a month or so with warm water and a squirt of washing up liquid, using a non-abrasive sponge or cloth. Glass can be cleaned in the same way, but we recommend drying the surface afterwards with an old newspaper to help remove streaks. Proprietary glass cleaning products may also be used, but please ensure the frames are washed down as described above to ensure no residues are left. Once or twice a year, lightly lubricate the handles and other hardware items using a product such as WD40. Open your windows and doors at least once a month to keep them operating at their best.

Any internal timberwork can be finished and treated in the same way as any other internal timberwork in your home. Where window boards (internal sill boards) have been replaced they can either be stained or painted, depending on your choice from room to room. Doors, for example, would regularly be finished internally with architraves and timber liners. Most people then paint these to match skirting boards and other architraves, but the choice is yours. It should be remembered that all such decoration is not part of the contract and is the responsibility of each individual homeowner.