Introduction
Grasping what causes condensation and figuring out how to prevent it can help protect your windows and family’s health.
Unfortunately the UK has a lot of cold, damp weather and this is where condensation thrives.
We’ll explore what causes condensation, the signs you should be looking for, and how to control it.
What is Condensation?
Condensation happens when water vapour in the air transforms into liquid when it comes into contact with a colder surface, such as a window on a particularly cold day.
Just like an ice cold drink on a hot day – the foggy layer of water is formed because of the difference in temperature.
In a similar way, this is also seen on windows, as they are typically colder than the air indoors.
Why Does Condensation Happen on Windows?
There are many contributing factors to there being a lot of condensation on windows, including ventilation issues, high humidity levels, and differences in temperature.
The UK sees a shift between humid, damp air in the summer to colder weather in the autumn and winter, making it the perfect conditions for condensation to thrive.
As the moist, warm indoor air hits the cold window surface, the moisture gathers, creating droplets or even fog. Lack of ventilation makes this issue even worse, as the humidity is trapped indoors without a way to escape.
Frequent Signs of Condensation
The signs of condensation include the following:
– Misted or foggy window surfaces
– Water droplets forming on the glass
– Mouldy areas or dampness around the window frames
Noticing these signs soon rather than later is important when looking to protect your windows from condensation.
The Perils of Condensation
If you don’t take action against condensation, it can lead to multiple problems. For instance, exposure to moisture will encourage mould which can damage your window frames and window sills, as well as impacting nearby walls.
Beyond the look of mould and structural issues, mould can cause health issues, which will be especially bad if your family or guests have any respiratory problems. Quickly taking action will ensure your property feels healthy and safe.
How to Increase Ventilation to Limit Condensation
One of the simplest ways to prevent condensation and control moisture is to improve ventilation. This can be achieved by:
Installing airflow systems that will help circulate air through the home.
Getting PIV (Positive Input Ventilation) units to reduce indoor moisture. This is particularly beneficial in bigger rooms.
Upgrading your space with extractor fans and air vents in areas with high-humidity, like bathrooms and kitchens.
Other Ways to Reduce Condensation
If you’re extra serious about reducing ventilation, make these changes:
– Reduce steam by covering pans when cooking
– Close doors in high-humidity rooms like bathrooms and kitchens
– Ventilate washing machines
– Don’t place furniture next to cold walls
– Avoid overfilling wardrobes and cupboards
What Causes Condensation on the Inside of Windows?
Annoyingly, activities you do every day, like cooking and showering, will increase humidity in your home, causing more window condensation.
If you don’t have correct ventilation and working heating systems, these common activities will lead to moisture settling on your windows.
What Causes Condensation on the Outside of Windows?
Condensation on the external window is a cause of warm indoor air contrasting with the cooler outdoor surface. This happens especially during colder months.
This is not a cause of worry because it means your energy-efficient windows are working correctly, as the heating from the inside is not escaping to the outside.
What Causes Condensation Between Window Panes?
Double glazed windows, as the name suggests, have two panes of glass, and if you notice condensation in between the panes, it may be that the windows have a seal problem. If there is a gap between the panes, moisture can enter which will reduce thermal efficiency in your home.
In circumstances like this, you should reach out to a professional company on fixing this issue. You may need to replace the windows to get the energy efficiency back to where it should be.
The Look of Clear Windows
Window condensation is a natural occurrence and fortunately it can be easily manageable when you follow a few simple steps outlined above.
We hope you have gained a better understanding of the condensation causes and how to notice the tell-tale signs early on.
Implementing a few of these strategies will lead to clearer windows and a clearer view.
Why do my new windows have condensation on the outside?
Don’t be alarmed—seeing condensation on the outside of your new windows is actually a good sign! It usually means your windows are doing their job in terms of energy efficiency, as they are preventing heat from escaping. This condensation occurs when warm, humid air meets the cooler surface of the window, causing the moisture in the air to turn into droplets.
Does triple glazing reduce condensation?
Of course! Triple-glazed windows, with their three panes of glass, provide exceptional insulation compared to single or double-glazed options. This superior insulation keeps the interior glass surface warmer, reducing the likelihood of condensation forming inside your windows. However, it’s worth noting that condensation can still occur on the exterior, especially under certain weather conditions.
Can dehumidifiers prevent condensation on windows?
Yes, dehumidifiers can be a great solution when considering how to stop condensation. By lowering overall humidity levels in your home, they reduce the moisture available to condense on cold surfaces like windows. If you place a dehumidifier in areas where moisture tends to accumulate, such as kitchens and bathrooms, you’ll find it particularly effective.
Why is there condensation on bedroom windows?
This usually occurs due to a combination of high humidity and temperature differences. Everyday activities like breathing, sweating, or even having plants in the room can add moisture to the air. When the outside temperature is cooler than inside, this moisture can condense on the colder window surfaces. It may also happen if your windows aren’t receiving enough ventilation, allowing humid air to build up. Simply opening your windows for a few minutes each day can help.
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