What to Do About Window Condensation

As temperatures continue to drop, you may notice a thin layer of frost or beads of moisture on the interior facings of your window panes. Don’t automatically jump to conclusions that your windows are not doing their jobs. In fact, just the reverse is probably true. Window condensation is actually created when moist air comes into contact with a colder surface like a wall, window or mirror. The most likely culprit for excessive condensation on your windows is a high humidity level inside your home.

Remember – on an impervious surface like glass, the water has no place to go. Gravity makes it flow to the nearest surface like a sill, wood trim, or plasterboard. It’s likely these windows are keeping the elements out of your home. But, what you need to worry about is any damage the “runoff” moisture may be causing.

These are places where mold, mildew, and deterioration can get an unhealthy start.

Wait. The condensation is BETWEEN the panes of glass.

A different problem, but one that often appears identical to the homeowners’ eye – is condensation or fogging within the space between double glazed windows. When this type of condensation happens it means there’s a defect in the seal of the unit. At some point, the edge seal of the window has failed and is allowing moisture to enter a space that was designed to be an airtight vacuum.

At Window Makeover, we can help to diagnose the situation and recommend appropriate and affordable solutions. Without having to buy a new window, we can just replace the double pane glass. Also, we can provide additional interior solutions to repair the damage from longer-term condensation issues.

Reduce Interior Moisture. Lower the Humidity.

If the interior moisture of your home is the main condensation culprit, here are a few steps you can take to try to improve your situation.

Know Your Humidity Levels

Most experts recommend maintaining a 25 to 30-percent relative indoor humidity. You can easily test your home’s levels with a hygrometer. Ask at your local hardware store – or, see if it is part of your “smart” thermostat’s capability. We have even read about mobile Android Apps that will read humidity!

Boost Airflow

Make sure the air is moving in your home even if it means using fans to help promote circulation. Make sure there’s ample venting in bathrooms, kitchens and laundry areas. Better ventilation can help to reduce humidity and condensation.

Identify Other Sources

If you have houseplants that need lots of water or even moist firewood stored close to a window, these sources can add to the moisture problem. Eliminate these unlikely sources and move them away from the affected window(s).

Finally, contact Window Makeover to review your window condensation problems. We will help you consider all the factors including age of your home, condition of the windows and any bigger problems you cannot see. The estimates are free and our results are priceless.