Condensation on windows often becomes a pain in the winter when you wake up in the morning and can’t see out your window or find moisture on the window bottoms. In worst-case scenarios, window condensation can reach the walls below your windows, causing mold or mildew to grow on your drywall and furniture.
Condensation is usually bad news in multiple ways. For example, it indicates weak points or thermal bridges in your home’s insulated envelope. It’s also a sign of high humidity levels in your home. Window condensation mainly occurs during the fall and winter months when outside temperatures are colder than internal temperatures, causing steam to be released into the air.
When Window Condensation Is Alright
Whenever you cook or take a shower, and your windows become steamy, it’s just normal interior condensation. It’s because window panes are often the coldest surface within any interior space. Due to your windows’ direct contact with the outside, the inside surfaces become as cold as the air outside. This causes inside warmer air to condense on the cold window panes, resulting in a foggy appearance. The appearance of interior window condensation could be a mixed blessing since it indicates strong insulation.
External window condensation may also be a good thing. Exterior condensation often results from unusual conditions when the outside air is slightly humid and warmer than your window glass’s temperature. This may occur when the weather outside is neither cold nor warm. It’s a sign that your windows provide the needed insulation and don’t give room for any heat transfer.
When Window Condensation Is Bad
If condensation collects on the inside of your window panes, pay close attention. Although interior condensation may result from steam from your stove pots or shower, it may also indicate excessive humidity levels in your home. If you notice interior condensation on windows other than bathroom and kitchen windows, it could be a ventilation problem.
If your home has poor ventilation, moisture can build up in the air over time. It will eventually condense on windows, furniture, carpets, and interior walls, possibly causing mold growth and structural damage.
How to Prevent Window Condensation
Depending on the cause of window condensation, here are some measures you can take to mitigate the problem:
Use moisture eliminators such as desiccant bags to regulate the amount of moisture traveling through your interior air.
Use exhaust fans whenever you take hot showers or baths.
Circulate your rooms by running your ceiling fans clockwise during colder months.
Get a dehumidifier to improve the comfort in your living quarters.
Switch to double-paned windows for better insulation and energy efficiency.