Do I Need to Worry about Window Condensation?
Do the windows in your home constantly fog up? Do they ice over in the winter time? Not only is this an annoyance, but it can also be a sign your windows are worn out and no longer giving you the protection and efficiency you deserve. You want to make sure you get these windows replaced, or at least regulate your indoor humidity before this moisture causes costly damage elsewhere. But first, you need to get to the root of the problem, because it might not be your window’s fault. Here is what you need to know.
What Causes Condensation?
A lot of things can add moisture to the air in your home. Plants, showering, laundry, and even breathing could increase your moisture levels as much as four gallons per day. Typically this type of humidity is normal, even healthy. But with the energy-efficiency of modern homes, sometimes there is no way for this moisture to escape. But what causes condensation?
Basically, warm air can carry more moisture. But when it cools rapidly, like coming in contact with a cold surface, the moisture condenses and the air releases it. It happens on soda cans that come straight out of the fridge, or an ice cold glass of water on a hot summer day. So condensation is common, and not necessarily a big concern. Your windows will probably fog up in your kitchen or bathroom whenever there are excess moisture and humidity in the room. It will likely dissipate on its own and shouldn’t cause concern.
When Should I Worry about Moisture on the Windows?
The type of window condensation you should worry about is constant moisture building up on the interior panes of your window. It can drip down the panes of glass, pool in the bottom of your window frames, and cause rot, mold, rust, or warping. The damage can even move beyond the window frame and drip down into the wall causing damage there as well. If you have a leak or excessive moisture, you might notice the wallpaper pulling away or the paint peeling from the wall.
Another type of condensation you don’t want to see is moisture between the panes of glass. Wipe your finger on the inner and outer panes, and if the moisture isn’t removed, then you have a broken seal on your windows. This means the inert gas between the panes has leaked out and been replaced with regular, moisture-laden air. This will decrease efficiency and you might notice an increase in your energy bills.
Tips for Getting Rid of Condensation
If you are looking to get rid of excess moisture in your home you might:
- Invest in a dehumidifier
- Capitalize on exhaust vents in your bathrooms and kitchens
- Turn on the ceiling fans to help circulate the air
- Open your windows on occasion for ventilation
Unfortunately, there isn’t much you can do get rid of moisture once it gets between the glazing. The only real solution is to replace the glass or to replace the window. Consider contacting Home Supply Window and Door at 973-949-5401. We can get you top quality products that will help improve energy efficiency in your home and reduce the likelihood of condensation forming on the glass. You can visit our showroom at 160 Van Winkle Ave, Hawthorne, NJ 07506, or call us at 973-949-5401.