What Can I Do About Window Condensation?

By Steve Bielinski

Window condensation, we’re all familiar with it, but do you know why it occurs and how it can harm your home? Let me break it down for you.

WHAT IS CONDENSATION?

During the winter months, moisture condenses onto windows and patio doors because glass is always the least insulated part of the home. Condensation occurs when cold from the outside transfers through the pane of glass and meets the warm interior air. That interior air contains water vapor which, when cooled, transforms into liquid water, also known as condensation.
 
That condensation will eventually drip and come to rest on your window frames and sills, which can cause water damage. Whether you have vinyl or wood framed windows and doors, you should take action as soon as condensation begins to appear on the inside of your windows and doors. Even better, you can take some preventative steps to prevent window condensation from occurring. During extreme cold periods, the condensation can even start to freeze and cause ice to form inside on your window or door.
 
Although condensation primarily occurs during the winter months, condensation can also occur during the summer months when the exterior air contains high levels of air humidity and the interior air of the home is cooler due to the use of air conditioning. However, the condensation then typically is observed on the exterior side of the window or door glass and poses less of a threat.
 

WHAT CAN I DO ABOUT CONDENSATION?

There are many steps you can take to eliminate condensation buildup. Start by opening your window blinds, curtains, or whatever window treatment you have to allow more interior home air to contact the glass.
 
Frequently turn on ceiling fans or run your furnace blower to facilitate air circulation in the home. We recommend turning your furnace from the AUTO position to the ON position during winter.
 
Homes with high humidity levels are more susceptible to condensation problems in the winter, so when you use your shower or kitchen range, be sure to use the exhaust fan or the range hood to vent the humid air out of the home. Be sure to leave your bath fan running for at least 30 minutes after you shower, and not just during. Also remember to use humidifiers sparingly, or run them on low settings.

WHAT DOES BIELINSKI DO ABOUT CONDENSATION?

Our homes are built to last, and part of that is giving you the tools to fight harmful condensation in your home. We install high-power exhaust fans in our bathrooms that are vented to the home’s exterior. We also vent the kitchen range hood to the exterior to help keep humidity from cooking at bay. Our programmable thermostats also allow you to turn your furnace blower on even when a heating cycle isn’t running.
 
Make sure you combat condensation this year. Speak to a New Home Consultant to learn other ways Bielinski helps you protect your home.