Condensation is caused when humidity in the air comes into contact with a cold surface and condenses from a gas into a liquid again. Condensation on your windows can indicate hidden issues in your home. It fogs up your windows, blocking your view of the outdoors. When water condenses and runs down your windows, it can end up sitting on the bottom of your windows panes and even freeze up during the winter months, creating problems that may need to be solved by installing new windows.
Why Condensation Occurs in Your Home Windows
Condensation indicates your home may have weak spots in it. This common problem can point to trouble with your home’s humidity level, which can be the result of problems in your basement, crawlspace, walls or ventilation system. And condensation can simply be a nuisance because it won’t disappear on its own. It can be bad for your health as it promotes mold and mildew growth, and can damage your home.
Two primary causes of condensation
1. Bad window seals
When water appears between your window panes, it can indicate your window is no longer sealed. Argon or krypton gas may have leaked out as a result of faulty window seals, decreasing your window’s insulating properties. If this is the cause of condensation in your windows, you likely need to have your seals repaired or get replacement windows.
2. Extreme indoor humidity
When excessive indoor humidity meets cold window panes, condensation can form. Too much humidity in a home can cause health problems such as chronic respiratory problems, lethargy, and even asthma attacks.
In order to determine the cause of your window condensation, run your finger through the area where condensation is formed. If your finger gets wet and leaves a trail through the condensation, it’s on the indoor side of the glass, and it means condensation is the result of excessive indoor humidity. Also, if you see condensation in more than one of your home windows, indoor humidity is the likely cause.
Condensation is most likely to occur in areas where January temperatures average 35 or less. It can also arise in summer and fall when your home picks up more moisture from damp air. It may even be triggered when temperatures drop quickly.
Condensation occurs naturally for a full year after you build a home or remodel it due to the need for building materials to dry out. It can also occur on bay or bow windows where circulation is restricted and windows are colder because they project out from your home—away from the warmth of your home’s walls.
How to decrease indoor humidity to lower the possibility for condensation on your windows
- Increase ventilation in your home.
- Control indoor moisture by lowering your use of a humidifier.
- Put indoor plants into one sunny room and avoid overwatering them.
- Keep window glass warmer by insulating under the head of bay and bow windows where condensation typically forms.
Condensation can be a sign you need new windows
When you verify that the condensation on your windows is due to faulty windows rather than excessive indoor humidity, it’s time to either get your windows repaired or install new windows.
Boost your energy savings consistently with new windows
When windows fail, utility bills increase, and indoor comfort decreases. Increase your energy savings throughout the year by replacing faulty windows. Other benefits of new windows include:
- Enjoy greater views of the outdoors throughout each season.
- Get the benefits of UV protection to safeguard your furniture and drapes.
- Boost your home’s beauty and overall curb appeal with replacement windows.
- Gain the benefits of optimal thermal performance from window replacements.
- Increase indoor comfort in your home by eliminating drafts from faulty windows.
- Get more natural light in your home due to the increased amount of glass area in replacement windows.
- Increase your home energy savings with window replacements.
- Boost your home’s resale value and enjoy a high return on investment (ROI) from your new windows.
- Minimize noise intrusion from aircraft, heavy equipment, and street noise with replacement windows.
- Get the benefits of a good warranty on your window replacements.
- Enjoy optimal window performance when your windows are installed by the pros.
Signs it’s time for new windows
Here are some basic things to look for that confirm it’s time for new windows.
- Are your current windows showing signs of condensation due to faulty window seals?
- Is it tough to open and close your current windows?
- Is there a lot of street noise, aircraft noise, or heavy equipment noise heard inside your home?
- Are your current windows old, faulty, or worn out?
- Did your windows get damaged due to a severe storm?
- Have your home utilities increased unexpectedly?
- Is your indoor comfort level diminished due to cool drafts coming through your old windows?
Seal Your Home from Energy Leaks with Reliable Window Installation
At Approved Contractor, our skilled team of professionals installs your windows with precision so you get the high performance you deserve from your window replacements. We take time to educate you on window options and guide you toward the best long-term solution for your needs. We’ll answer your questions on replacement window cost and window components so you can make decisions about your new windows with confidence. You’ll love seeing our 2D rendering of your completed house before your project begins.
Transform your home with beautiful replacement windows. Get superior customer service, outstanding products, and excellent long-term results by choosing Approved Contractor for your window replacement needs.
