You may have noticed your windows fogging up or sweating many times, but have you ever wondered why this happens? Is it a normal occurrence to begin with, or a serious issue to worry about? Polk Contracting, Inc. your trusted window and door installation contractor, answers these questions and more here.
Is Window Condensation Normal?
Condensation is a normal occurrence. That’s why you see water droplets on the outside of a cold glass that’s been left for a few minutes at room temperature. That’s moisture in the air building up on the surface as water droplets.
The same thing happens on your windows. When excess humidity or water vapor in the air comes into contact with the cold surface of the window glass, condensation or “sweating” occurs. For this to happen, there should be a notable difference between indoor and outdoor temperatures. Fortunately, this is not an uncommon occurrence. You can wipe down the window glass and frames so you can see clearly what’s outside your home, and let the remaining moisture evaporate on its own.
Minimizing Window Condensation
There are simple ways you can at least reduce water droplets from forming on either the inside or outside of your windows. Check out these tips and keep them in mind in case your windows are fogging up profusely.
- Turn on the ceiling fan. Doing so helps circulate the air and prevent condensation from forming on your windows. In the winter, turn your ceiling fan clockwise and set it to a slower speed. Cool air will rise while warm air goes downwards.
- Use exhaust fans. Run your ventilation fans when you’re cooking or taking a hot shower. Supplement this by opening the windows inside your bathroom or kitchen to get rid of the humidity.
- Opening your blinds, drapes, and curtains. Blinds, drapes, and curtains trap wet air close to your window, causing condensation to build up. You may improve the air circulation around your windows by keeping your window coverings open as much as possible.
- Lower your thermostat’s humidity control. If you have a thermostat that has settings for humidity control, use it to adjust humidity levels inside your home.
- Install a dehumidifier. If humidity and window condensation persists in your home, a dehumidifier may be necessary. These devices are reasonably priced and may significantly reduce moisture in the air before it becomes a serious issue in your home.
Polk Contracting, Inc. is one of the premier window and door contractors in northern Maryland. Call (410) 994-2801 or fill out our contact form and we will set up a time to meet with you for a no-obligation estimate. We proudly serve homeowners in all of Bel Air and Abingdon, MD.
