Window Condensation – Are My Windows Bad?

condensation on interior window pane

As winter approaches and temperatures begin to drop, you may start to notice something appearing on your windows – condensation. In most cases, water entering your home through windows would be a cause for concern that the windows or seals are bad, as it could mean there is a leak somewhere that could lead to much bigger damage and repair costs. However, window condensation can be attributed to several factors, many of which don’t indicate that anything is wrong with the windows themselves.

Before you call in the experts, consider these possibilities for condensation on your windows:

Home humidity:

Condensation occurs when humidity comes in contact with a cold service. For example, on a hot summer day, your cold beverage will form condensation on the outside of the can or bottle. In the winter inside your home, the cold surface of the window glass is in contact with the heated air in the room. In this scenario, your best option is to test the humidity of your home and address the factors that are causing it – uneven insulation, improper ventilation, etc. A quicker fix is to use a dehumidifier in the problem areas. Of course if you have an older home with single-pane windows, it may be time for an upgrade to dual- or triple-pane windows with an insulating air pocket between the glass.

Steam:

Whether it’s from the shower, or the tea kettle or stove, steam in your home is the quickest route to condensation on your windows. Be sure to close the door to your bathroom when showering so the steam stays contained, and always use the fan to help direct humidity outside of the home. When boiling water or cooking for longer periods in your kitchen, use the hood vent, and pot lids when possible.

Of course, there are many other small habits around the home that can cause window condensation, like air drying wet laundry indoors, or keeping houseplants that enjoy humidity. If you’ve ruled out all of these factors and are still experiencing window condensation, it may be time to have them checked for air and water leaks. Call today if you have concerns about the condition of your windows as cooler temperatures arrive.

True View Windows & Glass is here to help with your home transformation. Give us a call today for all of your window, mirror and shower glass needs!

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