Is Window Condensation a Problem?

Moisture on your windows in Beaverton, OR isn’t always a concern. In fact, it is probably a common occurrence, especially in your bathroom and kitchen. Occasional condensation is simply a sign that there is excess humidity in the room. But while some humidity is necessary for comfort and health, excessive humidity could build up and lead to costly damage like mold and decay or other health concerns. So here is what you need to know about humidity and condensation and when it should be a concern.

What Causes Condensation
Cool air cannot hold as much moisture as warm air. So when the warm air comes in contact with a cold surface, it cools down so quickly it needs to release the water. The water condenses and forms the fog or droplets on the cooler surface. So things like cooking, fish tanks, plants, showering, and even breathing can fog up the windows.

Types of Condensation
Interior condensation on the windows is what most homeowners notice, especially in the winter. The colder temperature outside makes the surface of the windows cold, and condensation starts to form at a lower relative humidity. Another occurrence is condensation forming between the panes. This indicates a broken seal. All of the inert gas between the panes is replaced with normal air that contains moisture. The last type is exterior condensation. This usually occurs in the summer when glass drops below the dew point temperature or there is high relative humidity outside. You can’t do much to control exterior condensation, but there are a few things you can do to prevent or reduce internal and interior condensation.

When is Condensation a Bad Thing?
In addition to blocking your view, excessive condensation can pool inside the frame, drip on the floor, or even freeze on the glass. You might notice peeling paint, rotted wood, buckling floors, or moisture spots on your walls and ceiling. This type of deterioration can be costly and if not corrected, will only get worse.

What Should I Do?
When condensation forms between the panes, you need to contact a professional for replacement windows Beaverton, OR. Also, if you only have a single pane of glass protecting you against the outside, there is very little insulation. Upgrading to double or triple glazing will make a world of difference and reduce condensation. But excessive and constant condensation on the glass does not necessarily indicate a problem with your windows. It usually means you need to reduce the humidity inside your home.

How to Reduce Indoor Humidity
The first thing you want to do is make sure your clothes dryer and gas burners vent to the outside. You can also use your exhaust fans in the bathroom and kitchen any time you shower, cook, and wash dishes. Another thing you might consider is ventilation. Older homes were not built as air tight and while that is a nightmare for energy efficiency, the natural infiltration of outside air helps dilute indoor humidity. In newer, air tight homes, humidity builds up. In addition to leaving structural ventilation open, you can open the windows for just a few minutes a day to allow the humid air to escape. If that isn’t enough, or you just can’t stand the cold, you should invest in a dehumidifier.

Contact EnergyGuard Windows and Doors
If you aren’t sure about the humidity in your home or the condensation on your windows, contact us at 503-554-5500 or come by 516 E. 2nd St., Newberg, OR 97132. We can offer you a free consultation where we can help find the best styles, materials and longest lasting windows in Beaverton, OR.