Condensation inside Double Glazing

[KeithJ]

I had condensation inside the double glazing of one window on my 'van last year. I was advised to remove the rubber bungs and it would dry out in the sun. Trouble is, I did it in January and very stupidly have left the bungs out since then. Instead of drying out, the window has attracted more condensation and now there is about an inch of water inside it. I have tried removing the support and opening the window until it is effectively upside down, so that the water can drain out of the bung holes. Unfortunately this only works in part, and there is still plenty of water to come out!

Would appreciate any ideas/advice on how to empty the remainder and dry out the window.

Regards

Keith

 

[mkej100]

Keith...check that your window isn't delaminated around the edge.If so new window required.

Mike.

 

[JTS]

Keith,this is a common problem, I saw at least four caravans with this problem on site in Dorset last week. I think the only way you will get rid of that amount of moisture is wait for a fine day ( we are due one sometime this year) and take the window off, you will be able to manipulate the window to drain off the excess water through the bung holes. If you can take the window indoors and use a heat source, a hair dryer will do but not to close. In the meantime if the weather is cold/damp keep the plugs in, you don't want to attract more moisture, the moisture will only evaporate if the window is warm. Good luck JTS.

 

[KeithJ]

Thanks Mike and JTS

The caravan is only just over a year old, and the condensation appeared when it was still under waranty, last year. Suppose I should have taken it back to the dealer, but I couldn't be bothered with the hassle for what I thought was a simple problem to solve myself. In view of the age I don't think it is delamination.

I will try the heat treatment but I think it will be a long job. Thought there might be some method of sucking the excess out with a tube first.

Keith

 

[whitetop]

I had this problem years ago on a previous van. My solution was to....don't laugh....drill a hole at the lowest point of the window on the inner pane....as close to the join as you dare...and then I bought a few of those cheap kiddies water pistols and removed the "bung" where you fill the pistol up. They have a sort of "T" bit so you don't loose them.

I used these to seal the holes. If any water appears, just remove the bung and let it drain.

Factory fit bungs are never at the lowest bit, hence your problem having to get the window to a ridiculous angle to drain.

Just remember.....buy the pistols first so you know the size of drill needed.....NEW sharp drill bit...and slowest speed setting on drill.

Cheers.....David

 

[KeithJ]

Thanks David

I had been tempted to drill a hole but the dealer nearly had a fit when I mentioned it to him. I don't see what harm it can do if you are careful - as you say, sharp drill, slow speed - and I was thinking of sealing the hole up again with clear bathroom sealer. I don't intend to let it fill up with water again, and any further condensation can be dried out by taking the top bungs out on a sunny (?) day. Think I'll try that!!!

Keith

 

[Thorpedo]

We also get condensation build up in our 1 year old Bailey, but as there are two bungs both at the top of the window I concluded that there would be no air flow, you know, cold air in at the bottom hot air out at the top.

I reckon an extra hole at the bottom would also clear any condensation quickier.

A strip of masking take on the window 1st would help stop the drill slipping.

 

[KeithJ]

Thanks - I will be trying later this week.