- How to Pick a Window?
- How to Pick a Window Company?
- Types of Window Installation
- Energy Saving Ideas
- Resources & Links
- How to Check and Seal Your Home Windows
Window & Door condensation happens when the surface temperature of glass is lower than the air around it (humid air). This usually happens during periods of high humidity or cold temperatures. The moisture in the air changes to liquid at these changes in temperature. You are more likely to see window condensation at or near the edges of window & door frames as this is the spot where air is most likely to leak through. Not only does condensation affect the amount of natural light that comes through the window, but it can also cause stains, mould and peeling paint on surfaces near the window creating an expensive and harmful result.
Protect your investment as a homeowner by having energy efficient windows installed, you can not only save on your heating bills but can greatly lower the risk of harmful condensation from happening. Energy efficient windows reduce heat escaping, making indoor condensation less likely.
Quality Home Improvements would like to provide you with some helpful tips in preventing indoor window & door condensation this winter:
10. Keeping windows free from trees (exterior) and window coverings such as curtains and blind open both allowing for as much sun as possible. These window accessories when closed also prevent air from flowing onto and around the window or door surface. The less air flow onto the glass, the more condensation will form.
Window and doors with heat sources below them are less susceptible to heat loss. The rising of the heat creates the air temperature to become higher in the vicinity of the window resulting in excess humidity creating harmful condensation.
9. Use a plastic deflector on any air vents beneath windows to direct the air flow into the room instead.
Maintaining a comfortable level of humidity in your home in the cold winter months is important however if they are not properly ventilated, you may not only see condensation on your windows and doors, and possibly mould growth. Small things that can be done to ensure minimal damage include
8. Using fans that vent outside for both cooking and bathing.
7. Using kitchen range fans for approximately 30 minutes prior to and one hour after running a dishwasher or cooking
(This gets the ventilation motion going before any moisture is produced and helps to fan keep up with the increasing moisture content and expel it at a rapid pace.)
6. Installing a dehumidistat to bathroom fans.
(These turn on automatically when the moisture is too high and shut off again once moisture levels are down to an acceptable level. These devices can also be programmed to run at your convenience on a daily basis for regular moisture ventilation.)
Older homes may have less of a condensation issue if more air exchange between inside and out is pliable. We often see this from loose or warping frames. Unfortunately this also ensures a higher energy bill. New homes, on the other hand are often built with energy-efficient glass and frames making them air tight. Most have plastic within the wall cavity that blocks moisture not allowing it to pass in either direction. Humidity levels become slightly higher so it’s important to monitor them more closely. You can do this with:
1. A simple gauge you might find at your local hardware store
2. Watching the condensation levels on the exterior facing glass in your home.
3. Another simple fix to excess moisture is to open a window or run a dehumidifier.
4. Making sure gutters drain away from the home.
5. Storing the winter’s supply of firewood outside
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