Why Windows Might Have Condensation (Hint, It Doesn't Mean You Need New Ones)

If homeowners see their windows covered in condensation, their first reaction is to call the window company. They often suspect that they've had a faulty installation recently or that they need new windows and doors for their home. What this actually means, though, surprises many homeowners.

Why Windows May Have Exterior Condensation In The Spring Or Fall

During the spring and fall, it's not uncommon for the glass to have small droplets of water on the outside. This happens mostly when the nights turn cool after a warm day. The temperature of the glass falls below the air's dew point, which causes condensation. This is completely normal, especially for high efficiency windows, and the water will eventually evaporate once the outside temperature warms up again.

Why Windows May Have Interior Condensation In The Winter

If you're finding water on the interior of the glass, it's often not a problem with the installation. Instead, it's typically from too much moisture in the air in your home. On older homes, this is most common in the winter when humidity levels can be too high. If your home has a humidifier, check to make sure that moisture levels don't go above 35%. If you don't have a humidifier, consider adding one, turning on ceiling fans around the home to help circulate the air or simply opening the blinds to provide more air circulation close to the glass.

This phenomenon is also common in newly constructed homes. These houses often have excess moisture from paint and other building materials that homeowners don't even realize is there. It can take a few months for this additional moisture to dissipate so expect that this condition will go away on its own.

While this can be completely normal, it's important to not let the water sit on the sill. Doing this can help provide a breeding ground for mold so take the time to wipe up any water and eliminate the humidity problem before mold has a chance to grow.

Why Windows May Have Condensation In Between The Panes

This can happen to windows that have two panes of glass that make up the window. The most likely scenario is that the sealant that keeps the two panes of glass sealed together to make what the industry calls, a glass-pack, has become compromised, which allows moisture to accumulate in between the panes. If air can get in and get trapped, moisture will build up. This also means that any insulating gas has been lost for the window as well. This is commonly called a "seal failure" A window company that offers your specific window brand might be able to help you replace the window sash as it doesn't necessarily mean that you need an entirely new window. If the window is fairly new, this might be covered under a warranty, which is why it's important to call a window company for help that sells or services your brand of windows.

Unless you're finding moisture between the panes of glass, chances are good that the condensation you're finding is completely normal. Take the time to make sure you know where the moisture is coming from and if it's inside your house, take the necessary measures to eliminate the problem before mold has a chance to grow.

Opal Enterprises, a Wheaton window company, provides many services. To ensure customers receive the best Naperville windows, Opal Enterprises uses the right types of Wheaton windows and doors for each home. To see a gallery of projects, visit their site.

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