Worried about window condensation? You shouldn’t necessarily be so! Window condensation is generally regarded as a problem. However, you might be surprised to know that it is not always a problem, and in most cases, addressing it would not even cost you anything.
If you are someone who has been stressing over window condensation and has no idea about what causes it and whether or not it could be harmful, hang on. We have got your back with our in-depth explanation of what causes window condensation and how it can be addressed.
- WHAT CAUSES WINDOW CONDENSATION
Condensation happens when the moisture in the air gets in contact with a cool surface and collects over there, making the surface damp. This moisture that gets collected on a surface, like the glass of a window, does not come from the glass itself. On the other hand, it is the moisture in the air that gets collected on the cold outer surface of the glass.
When it comes to windows, condensation can occur on either side of the glass of a window. Whether the window condensation is a problem or not is indicated by the side of the window where condensation is forming. Therefore, before stressing over window condensation, you should relax and look at which side of the window glass the condensation forms.
To help you understand what it means when the condensation is forming over either side of the window glass, we have explained what happens when condensation occurs on the interior, exterior side of the window, or in between the window panels.
- WHERE IS THE CONDENSATION FORMING?
During the warm season, if the condensation is forming in the interior surface of the glass of the window, it simply means that your home has a high level of humidity and the moisture in the air is getting collected onto the surface of the inner glass of the window. This indicates an air conditioning or venting problem. However, if this is happening during the cold season, it suggests that your window insulation is not as effective to control the moisture in the air outside to stay outside only. This can also result in heat loss in your home, making your home cool and uncomfortable during cooler months.
However, if the same happens during hot and humid months, and the windows are feeling cool to touch at the outer surface, you will need to consider installing replacement windows.
The case of condensation forming between the glass panels is not a common occurrence. This usually happens in scenarios where the seal between the sash and the glass panels is broken. In such a case, moisture in the air gets into the glass panel and collects on the cooler side of the glass surface.
- THE SOLUTION
To prevent window condensation, there are certain things you need to take care of. For avoiding indoor humidity, which leads to condensation on the inner surface of the glass windows, you will need to control the source of moisture by simply venting it out every day. To prevent exterior condensation, get replacement windows installed.