A-rated windows - exterior condensation is normal.

It seems that some homeowners are experiencing condensation problems with a-rated double glazing, only in this case, the condensation is on the outside.

The problem stems from the fact that the windows are so efficient at keeping the warmth in, the outer pane of glass is dropping in temperature, leading to condensation forming on the outside - it's been likened to coming out to your car in the morning and the condensation you find on the outside of the car windows.

When you're having an a-rated window installation, your installer should explain that this is a natural occurrence and that whilst the condensation may seem unsightly, it usually burns off as the morning progresses.

The effect is most evident during the Autumn and Winter months when night time temperatures fall lower.

Like your car windows, windows that are shaded by overhanging bushes or low trees or face the sunrise will clear quicker / not condensate as much.

And it's not unheard of for windows, even on the same face of the house, to clear at different intervals as the outside pane warms up, dispelling the moisture.

The temperature of the inside of the property will also affect how quickly the condensation clears. Even though a-rated windows use a particular form of spacer in the manufacture of the sealed glazing unit itself that doesn't transfer heat as much as normal c-rated glazed unit spacers, some heat transfer is inevitable.

In really low temperatures, exterior condensation is likely to freeze - again, just like a car window.

Whilst a-rated and coated glass is generally as tough as ordinary glass, it can scratch if wiped or scraped with stones etc trapped in the cloth or other surface you're using so take care.

if you're worried about the issue of condensation, you could explore fitting a less efficient window e.g a c-rated design.

Of course seeing condensation forming on your new windows can be a bit alarming, however a call to your installer is usually enough to reassure you that it's a normal part of owning the most advanced, thermally efficient windows on the market today.

The market is already aware of the problem and ideas like a form of self-cleaning coating (like the kind currently available which encourages rain to 'run-off' windows) will no doubt be explored. In the meantime, a little condensation is the price for ultimate energy efficiency in the home.

We've not read any reports of similar issues with c-rated windows, however the more thermally efficient a window is, the more likelihood it will suffer some form of exterior condensation.

A Glass for every Conservatory roof.

Glass technology has being keeping pace with the popular and rising demand for glass roofs in conservatories. This increase in demand may be due to more homeowners viewing a conservatory as an extension to their living space rather than the addition of an occasional room for the Summer.

So when homeowners are discussing their conservatory specification for a quote, it's worth remembering the options are that readily available.

For example, you can now specify glass roofs (and side panels to) with anti-glare coatings, which reduce the suns glare. These coatings are very useful in roofs and do not affect the light levels.

You may prefer to combine anti-glare properties with coatings that reflect the sun's heat carrying waves. This blocks the suns energy keeping conservatories cooler in the Summer and warmer in the Winter by reflecting warmth back into the interior of the conservatory.

It reduces energy bills in both heating and cooling with it's improved U-values, just like a-rated energy efficient window coatings.

Finally, you can also specify coatings which help keep the glass clean by encouraging self-washing. Ideal again for roofs, these durable coatings work by encouraging organic matter to break down in the sunlight so that when it rains, the rainwater washes off the dirt accumulation. The glass surface is usually hydrophilic which means rain water runs off without leaving water droplets which can dry and leave unsightly spots.

Of course all these different options come at a cost but it's worth knowing in advance what is available and discussing with your preferred conservatory company if they offer these coated glasses.

We've noticed some incredible deals on offer around the country at the moment, for example free upgrades to glass roofs from the normal polycarbonate roofs, which could make extra coatings a very worth while exercise in your future comfort and enjoyment of your conservatory - all year round.

Visit Window Quoter for your free online conservatory quote now.

Government says no to Double Glazing Scrappage Scheme - make do with Green Deal

Despite individual window companies offering customers 'scrappage scheme' discounts on double glazing, there's been no official Government campaign like the motor trade scheme the window companies have, and continue to copy.

However, after being petitioned by the glazing industry, the Government has finally responded.

Whilst it says it won't entertain an outright national scrappage scheme for replacement windows, even though it admits the cost of a full house installation could be on a par with purchasing a new car, it expects "double glazing will be one of the measures that can be installed under the Green Deal".

The Green Deal is a scheme where energy companies and high street stores will be required to finance insulation and other energy efficiency measures in homes upfront. The costs will then be paid back by the homeowner through their energy bills based on the energy savings they make. Effectively, the homeowner doesn't benefit from cheaper energy bills, but does get the value of the improvements.

Key properties that will be targeted are those that are difficult or expensive to heat - properties without cavity wall insulation and residential areas of fuel poverty.

Local authorities are helping the Government identify those homes and areas that will benefit most from a Green Deal.

It's not all bad news for homeowners then (or the double glazing industry which was hoping for a welcome boost to sales on the back of a nationally recognised scheme) but in the meantime, there will always be window companies offering superb individual money saving offers including their own scrappage schemes and finance options.

If you're interested in offers, keep a close eye out for VAT free offers. There are quite a few about now but expect the number to increase the nearer to December we get, ahead of the VAT increase to 20% in January.

Are you interested in getting a local scrappage scheme style discount when replacing your old windows and doors? Then visit WindowQuoter and get your instant online quote.