How To Prevent Condensation On Windows
A common issue for homeowners, condensation on interior windows can be detrimental to your household’s health as it may lead to mold and rot. Addressing it effectively is essential to maintaining a healthy and comfortable living environment. So too is understanding how to avoid condensation on windows from happening in the first place.
Below, we’ll go over why condensation — or glass sweating — happens and how to prevent condensation on your windows.
What Causes Sweating Windows
The inside of a home’s windows can become noticeably wet more frequently during the winter months. This happens as the indoor humidity levels rise when the home is heated. Such high humidity may worsen when temperatures outside plummet and result in dampness forming on the inside of windows.
While this dew on the window glass isn’t a major cause for concern, the excessive moisture can drip down and impact the surrounding areas. When left unaddressed, this could lead to mold, rotting wood trim and other unwelcome problems.
Running the heat in winter isn’t the only way to increase indoor humidity levels. There are many day-to-day activities that can contribute to moisture in the air and on the windowpanes: cooking, doing the dishes and laundry, showering and even having a fish tank.
Ways to Stop Condensation on Windows
At some point, most homeowners stop and ask, “how can I stop condensation on the windows?” Fortunately, there are many solutions to help keep moisture out of windows and wood trim. Experts say the best way to stop condensation on your windows is to practice condensation control. This approach refers to certain actions performed to eliminate moisture at the source.
Professional recommendations include:
- Utilizing a dehumidifier
- Whole-house dehumidifiers or smaller standalone models are great for reducing indoor humidity levels.
- Adjusting the humidifier setting
- Turning down the setting on any humidifiers can also help control excess humidity and prevent condensation-related issues.
- Circulating the air
- Switching on ceiling fans and exhaust fans works to keep the air moving and moisture from accumulating.
Condensation on the Outside Window Glass
When wondering “why do my house windows have condensation,” many people consider what’s going on outside and if moisture on the exterior glass has anything to do with it. While condensation on the exterior of windows may look bad, it’s normal and is generally nothing to worry about. Plus, it isn’t contributing to the issues going on indoors.
Exterior window wetness usually occurs naturally as the dew point approaches the outside air temperature. As the outside air temperature rises, this condensation will naturally dissipate.
It may be more noticeable with energy-efficient windows as they trap the warmth inside and prevent it from reaching the outer glass panes. Such moisture is actually a positive sign that the energy-efficient windows are effectively insulating your home and working as designed.
When to Have Your Windows Evaluated
If you’re still experiencing issues after taking steps on how to reduce condensation on your windows, it may be time to have them assessed and potentially upgraded. Before calling in the professionals, there are a few steps you can do yourself to determine if your windows need attention.
- Check exterior surfaces for moisture: If present on adjacent exterior surfaces but not on the windows, it could be an indicator for window replacement.
- Assess window performance: Consistent moistness, draftiness and other signs of poor performance may also be indicating an upgrade to thermally efficient windows is warranted.
Winning the Battle Against Window Condensation
By controlling indoor humidity levels and recognizing the signs of a problem, you can manage window condensation in your home all winter long. However, when a problem is identified and you suspect your windows may need an upgrade, be sure to reach out to the experts for a long-term solution.
Here at Davis Window and Door, we’ve been providing homeowners personalized advice and high-quality window replacement services for more than 50 years. You can put your trust in our experts for your next window installation and replacement project.
Give us a call to learn more about thermally efficient windows and how to keep window condensation gone for good!
