Are you dealing with foggy condensation on your home’s windows? Condensation on your windows can be a hassle, of course — but it can also be a sign of a more serious problem that can cost you down the road if you don’t address it promptly.
Fortunately, there are ways to address window condensation smartly, so you can get back to enjoying your home. But first, it pays to understand why the problem is arising, so you can find the best solution. Here’s how to tackle window condensation in your home.
What is condensation?
Have you ever put a cold glass of iced water on the table during summer? You’ll notice something start to happen pretty quickly — a thin layer of water droplets forms on the outside of the glass. That’s condensation, which forms when an object is cooler than the surrounding air. It’s a natural phenomenon that can cause some issues for your home.
What causes condensation on a home’s windows?
Our homes are typically either warmer or colder than the outside air, depending on the season. On top of that, the air inside our home or outside can get humid. (The humidity in Detroit can get pretty high at times.)
When it’s very humid either outdoors or inside, condensation can form on a home’s window glass. This is common because your window panes are usually the coldest surface in your home during fall and winter, and the warmest surface in your home during the summer heat. So, that’s when you’re likeliest to see condensation forming.
Should I be worried about window condensation?
It depends on where you’re seeing the condensation.
ON THE EXTERIOR OF THE GLASS
Why it’s happening:
- If you’re seeing fog on window exteriors, this can actually be good.
- New windows that use today’s insulating technologies prevent heat from transferring between your home and the outdoors, which can cause exterior fogging.
Is it a problem?
Probably not.
What to do:
- Double check sills and frames to be sure you don’t see patches of moisture inside your home. This can be a sign of moisture in the walls due to gaps between the window and its frame.
- Otherwise, simply let the glass defog naturally as the sun warms the window.
ON THE INTERIOR OF THE GLASS
Why it’s happening:
This is a more serious issue — because condensation inside your home can be a sign of too much indoor humidity. And that can mean you have ventilation problems.
Is it a problem?
Unfortunately, yes. Excess moisture inside your home causes two problems:
- Mold and mildew — Unhealthy mold and mildew thrive in moist environments, causing allergic reactions and breathing problems.
- Deterioration — Too much dampness inside your home, and you’ll begin to see signs of wood rot, rust, wet insulation, foundation problems, and other deterioration — leading to costly repairs.
What to do:
- Check for drafts. Air leaks caused by gaps between windows and their frames may be causing the issue.
- Replace sealing where needed to eliminate drafts. This is often a short-term solution, because protective gas between the window panes can escape during the resealing process, which results in lowered insulation value and therefore higher utility bills.
Consider replacement windows to eliminate the problem long-term.
BETWEEN THE WINDOW PANES
Why it’s happening:
This is the most serious form of window condensation. It’s a sure sign that you’re no longer enjoying the insulating effects that multi-pane windows are meant to offer.
Is it a problem?
Sadly, it’s a big problem. Condensation inside the window, between the panes, creates several issues:
- Lowered insulation quality, leading to higher utilities bills
Excess moisture accumulation, increasing the likelihood of further window deterioration - Potential for moisture to damage other parts of your home too, causing wood rot, mold, mildew, rust and other costly problems
What to do:
- Invest in replacement windows as soon as you can. Condensation between window panes will only grow worse.
- New windows will give you better insulation, lowered utilities bills, and eradication of the moisture problem, safeguarding your home.
What do I do if I need replacement windows?
If the condensation you’re experiencing is widespread throughout your home, or happening between the panes of your windows, then it’s time to invest in new windows. Here are a few tips to keep in mind as you consider your options.
Don’t wait too long.
Remember, any issue you’re having with moisture inside your home can lead to costly repairs down the road. You can find yourself facing a host of unpleasant issues like these:
- Rotted wood
- Structural damage
- Damaged window frames
- Wet, ruined insulation
- Leaks
- Rust
- Mold and mildew
- Musty, unpleasant odors
For all these reasons, it’s worth investing in windows that will eliminate your condensation and related moisture issues.
Do a thorough inspection.
It’s wise to call on a professional window replacement contractor to give you a thorough assessment of what’s happening. They’ll recognize issues you might miss.
Consider fiberglass windows
One of the best ways to prevent condensation from happening to you again is to choose the right replacement windows. Fiberglass windows from a trusted, top brand like Marvin® are a superb option.
Among the advantages you’ll see when you choose fiberglass replacement windows by Marvin:
- Stand up against weather elements
- Resist corrosion
- No condensation
- Low maintenance
- Energy efficient
- Block outside noise
- Improve curb appeal
- Increase home value
See How Window Replacement Can Transform Your Home
Ready to defeat window condensation and other window problems that keep you from enjoying beautiful views and natural light? Call on greater Detroit’s expert window replacement contractor — John McCarter Construction. Our team will make the process of removing old, outdated, inferior windows and installing lovely, modern new ones a breeze. You’ll enjoy windows that save you money, look great, and are easy to care for.
Contact us today to request a free quote and get started on windows that make you love your home all over again.
