We’ve all had them at one point or another: windows in our homes that perpetually have a buildup of condensation. You may have tried lots of solutions to no avail, as the condensation is usually trapped on the inside and is likely due to a broken seal. Usually, window replacement is the only remedy. But when condensation is accumulating on the inside or outside surface of the window, there are a few things you can do to fix it.
Condensation forms when the temperature on one side of your window is much different than the temperature on the other side. This is certainly a frustrating occurrence, as you can’t get a good view of the outdoors. Here’s how to prevent condensation on your windows.
Interior Condensation: Lower the Humidity
Most cases of condensation are due to high humidity levels. To reduce condensation, you’ll need to find ways to cut down on the humidity inside your home.
- Open the curtains or drapes. You’re more likely to see the formation of condensation when you have your curtains and drapes drawn. Open your window treatments to prevent the trapping of heat against the window pane.
- Circulate the air. Turn on your ceiling fans and switch them to the clockwise direction, which draws warm air from the ceiling down.
- Turn down the humidifier. Turn down or turn off your humidifier until you see a reduction in the relative humidity.
- Ensure proper ventilation. Some rooms such as the bathroom and kitchen are more prone to moisture buildup. Run exhaust fans when you’re taking a shower or cooking. Check that your exhaust fans and clothes dryer vent are working properly. If you don’t have exhaust fans in your house, open the windows for a while.
- Keep firewood outside. Plants and firewood add moisture to indoor air, so store firewood outside.
Exterior Condensation: Use Water Repellent
It’s much harder to control condensation on the outside of your windows than the inside. It’s really up to Mother Nature what happens to the exterior of your home. But in general, condensation occurs when the outside surface temperature goes below the dew point. You’ll usually see this happen when outside humidity levels are high, such as in summer, as well as on cool nights after a very hot day.
Exterior condensation is usually triggered by these main things: high outdoor humidity, little to no wind, and clear night sky.
To get rid of condensation on the outside, you can just wait for the day to heat up and dry off the moisture. Or you can apply a water repellent to the outside of your windows. Many people use this on car windshields to boost visibility when it’s raining.
We hope this guide has been helpful in preventing and addressing condensation on your windows.
Contact Amazing Exteriors for Quality Replacement Windows in Texas
Need new windows for your Texas home? Have questions about how to prevent condensation? We are here to help. Please contact us at 512-428-8417 to schedule a free quote and consultation. You can also stop by and visit our amazing showrooms in San Antonio, Dallas, or our featured location this month for Replacement Windows in Austin, TX.
