Frosty patterns on the windows - it is very beautiful. But not everyone knows the reasons for their appearance. This is due to the fact that wooden windows freeze. In fact, this is a serious problem that needs to be addressed for a comfortable stay. There are several different reasons why window structures can freeze. But before proceeding with the solution of the problem, its root cause should be determined.
Why do wooden windows freeze?
Among the main reasons, the following can be distinguished - poor ventilation in the room. As a result, condensation begins to accumulate on the window surface and it freezes. The accumulation of moisture contributes to the temperature difference in the house and on the street.
There are two ways to deal with a problem due to poor ventilation. The first involves replacing the ventilation system and the windows themselves if they are out of order. This is an expensive and time-consuming process, which not everyone is ready to go. The second solution is more affordable - frequent airing at home. However, the second method will not work out completely.
Poor window sealing can also be called an equally frequent cause.. As a result, it freezes, because the microclimate inside and outside is different. Incorrect installation can also lead to a problem. Most often this happens when people try to save money and install structures on their own, not knowing all the intricacies of the installation process. Sometimes the reason lies in the fact that the windows in the house are not suitable for the microclimate of the region. In this case, they will freeze, even if the installation is correct, and the ventilation meets the requirements.
Among the additional reasons, the following can be distinguished:
- Incorrect operation of the window structure.
- Skews and the need for repair of the structure.
- Inadequate heating at home.
- Wide windowsill. It can also cause a problem due to the fact that the convection jet of hot air encounters an obstacle, due to which condensation forms and accumulates on the window.
- Freezing hardware.
Many people try to solve problems on their own. Most often, they stack various materials between double glazing - sawdust, cotton wool. As a result, these materials absorb moisture even more. This leads to the fact that condensate accumulates faster, the windows freeze, frost appears on them.
We solve the problem of poor sealing
To prevent freezing of wooden windows in the winter, it is worth performing high-quality sealing of the window structure. One way is to fetch a quarter of the window unit, sashes and frame. In order to exclude the appearance of possible gaps, platbands are additionally attached to the wings.
If the above method for some reason does not suit you, you can use another - caulking glass mount. The method involves the removal of the old putty and the use of a new one. You can also replace old glazing beads using silicone sealant. This method is suitable only for old wooden windows, and for modern ones with double-glazed windows, it is worthwhile to look for other ways to solve the problem.
For old products, caulking is carried out in the narthex, where the window unit and the wings are in contact. It is important to achieve a snug fit between the strips and the window frame. You can use elastic materials. The algorithm of the work is as follows:
- Remove the old platbands.
- The contact points of the window block and the wall are caulked with the help of mounting foam or tow.
- Platbands put in their original places. You can use both old and new.
- A special wallpaper tape or construction tape is glued between the flaps on the inside.
The result is a completely blocked access of cold air inward and warm air outward. However, it should be understood that this method reduces natural ventilation.
What other problems may arise?
Many owners try to insulate window structures before the start of the heating season. This leads to another problem - their fogging. If before the start of the insulation with your own hands there was no such problem, it means that during the repair process the natural ventilation was disturbed.
It is possible to exclude fogging of windows in a more modern way - by gluing a special film. Most often they call a master who does the work quickly and efficiently. But if you wish, you can stick the film yourself, there are no difficulties in this work. It should be remembered that the film will prevent fogging only at temperatures outside the window to minus 20 degrees. The product may also have additional functions, for example, energy saving or protection from sunlight.
Many experts advise using a solution of glycerol with alcohol in a ratio of 1:10 to prevent freezing of windows. First, the glasses are wiped with a solution, and then wiped dry.
High humidity and condensation will cause mold. It should be disposed of immediately, since mold is one of the strongest allergens. It can have a negative impact on the health of households, especially children. This is due to the fact that mold secretes spores, provoking allergic reactions.
First, the affected areas of the structure are treated with bleach solution. There are also special chemicals that remove mold. Particular attention is paid to corners. In addition, you can process them with a building hair dryer, carrying out heat treatment. To prevent mold from reappearing, corners are treated with ultraviolet light using special irradiators.
How to get rid of ice?
If ice does form, you need to get rid of it correctly. This is done as follows:
- Using a plastic scraper, ice formations are carefully removed. Using scrapers made of other materials is not recommended, as this will scratch the glass.
- Then, using a paper towel or a dry cloth, the remaining moisture is removed.
Some tips will help ease the problem until it is completely eliminated. Firstly, in the daytime you should try to ventilate the room every four hours for an average of ten minutes. Secondly, at night, you can lay a towel in the lower part of the window frame. It will absorb the condensate that forms at night.
It is not necessary to glue the outer frames, as this will lead to freezing of window structures. It is best to lubricate the glass with a special solution on both sides. It is also worth trying to maintain the temperature and humidity at a normal level.
So, if wooden or plastic windows freeze, the root cause should be eliminated. Also make sure that the installation of windows was originally professional. This will significantly reduce the likelihood of freezing windows.