Does condensation build up on your windows during summer’s transition to autumn? Because windows are some of the coldest surfaces of a home, balancing them against indoor warmth can be challenging for many homeowners – especially when trying to reduce the added liquid build-up. For those experiencing such difficulties, rest assured, there are solutions. By understanding what causes condensation on and around windows – and by taking the right steps to solve the problem – wet windows will soon be a thing of the past.

Causes of condensation

The cool temperatures that fall brings means you’ll be turning up your home’s heat. With every effort to keep the warm air in, and cold air out, sealing your home against air leakage reduces natural ventilation to the outdoors. When the air inside your home warms, it expands, which allows it to hold more moisture. Common daily activities in your home – such as cooking, showering and heating – continuously add more moisture to the air. When this humid air is exposed to cold window glass, it cools and condenses, thereby creating a wet surface.

Eliminating water build-up

High-performance windows with increased insulation barriers create warmer interior glass surfaces, which will reduce frost and condensation formations. A common indicator of a window’s performance ability is its U-value (or U-factor), which refers to total heat transfer from a window. The lower the U-value, the better it can handle humidity. A common misconception is that windows with better sealing will prevent water accumulation. However, replacing windows with ones that have better sealing, but the same insulation/U-value as the original ones, can actually increase condensation. This is because the new windows will reduce air leakage and natural ventilation. Triple pane windows, like All Weather Windows Apex 9100, allow virtually zero condensation build-up and provide homeowners with more insulation and energy efficiency.

*E coating: developed to minimize the amount of ultraviolet and infrared light that can pass though glass
*Argon: used between panes to minimize heat exchange through windows and offers better insulation

Quick tips for homeowners:

• Run exhaust fans in moisture-prone areas, such as bathrooms and kitchens, when showering or cooking to reduce excess humidity.
• Drapes and blinds prevent air movement over glass, which may lead to condensation. Keep drapes and blinds open as much as possible and at least six to eight inches off the frame to improve airflow.
• Ventilation is the most effective means to remove moisture from your home. By exchanging some of the drier outdoor winter air for warm and humid interior air, moisture levels inside the house will reduce.
• Open a door or window for short periods of time to allow moisture to escape.
• Remove casement screens to increase airflow.