When the surface temperature of the glass is below the dew point of the air, condensation forms. This is like a cold glass of lemonade on a hot summer day. Even though condensation on your windows and doors might not look good, it’s usually not a big deal. The good news is that you can reduce or stop window condensation with a few easy fixes. Here’s how.
Common Causes of Window Condensation
Even though moisture on your windows might look like a problem, it doesn’t always mean that there is one. In fact, condensation on your windows can be a sign that they are making an airtight seal.
How to Prevent Condensation on Windows
Both inside and outside window condensation can be stopped in different ways. The first thing you need to do is find out where the water is coming from. Use the following tips to stop condensation from forming on your windows once you know what it is.
Preventing Window Condensation on the Inside
Start by measuring the relative humidity to stop condensation from building up on the inside of your windows. Once you know how humid your house is, you can take steps to lower the humidity and prevent condensation:
Open window treatments.
When drapes or shades are closed or pulled down, condensation is more likely to happen. Try pulling your window coverings back so that the heat doesn’t get stuck on your window.
Circulate the air.
In the same way that a light breeze can take the edge off of the heat and humidity outside, some air flow can do wonders inside. Even in the winter, you can turn your ceiling fans clockwise to move warm air from the top of the room down.
Turn the humidifier down.
If you’re using a humidifier in a nursery, to treat a cold, or as part of your furnace, turn it down or off until the relative humidity goes down.
Ensure proper ventilation in your home.
Places like your kitchen, bathroom, and laundry room are more likely to get wet. Be sure to turn on the exhaust fans when you cook or take a shower.
Keep firewood outside.
If you have a fireplace that burns wood, store your firewood outside to help keep the humidity down.
Exterior Window Condensation
This kind of condensation happens more often when the humidity outside is high, like in the spring, summer, and fall when warm days are followed by cool nights.
Getting Rid of Window Condensation on the Outside
Condensation on the outside of windows happens often because it depends on the time of year and the weather. It doesn’t mean that your windows are broken or that your house is too humid. You can just wait for the sun to come out and dry everything up.
