Double Glazing - condensation or leak?

goldbyron

One of my double glazed windows in the front room has water around the frames. I am not sure if it is condensation or rainwater. The window has a small ledge overhanging it on the outside so not sure if it is rain. When I open the window there is water collected at the bottom and top of the frame around the outside of the unit itself which then tips onto the sill. Is this just a condensation problem or something else? Thanks

Mikeyorks

Condensation normally manifests as mist between the two glass panels. You appear to have rain getting into the frame recess and not draining out properly. Check the drain vents / also the rubber seals?

economiser

Are they metal, UPVC or wood frames and how old are they? Older metal frames were poorly insulated and subject to condensation in unheated or poorly heated rooms.

goldbyron

They were installed 1 year ago and are Upvc. I will check the drain vents - although unsure what I am actually looking for! Cheers

Mikeyorks

goldbyron wrote: »

although unsure what I am actually looking for! Cheers

From the inside - looking out. There will be a hole (slot) at the bottom right and bottom left of the frame. Could also be one in the middle. Those are the drain holes. Check they're clear and poke them out a bit with that most useful tool - the straightened paper clip!

Also check the slots are clean cut and have no plastic 'chaff' surrounding them. The slots should go down from 1/4" up the side of the frame to level with the base, as you're viewing it. If there's chaff - cut it away with a Stanley knife or similar.

Had a similar problem with water actually coming into a new conservatory
from the upper push-out windows. Turned out the milling machine that cuts the slots hadn't been sharp and had left chaff at the bottom of all the slots. As the windows were leaded - more water got into the frame than is usual - and actually overflowed to the inside. A patient fitter (who only believed me when the first frame put a pint of water inside his shirt) and a sharp Stanley knife eventually sorted it.