Addressing Window Condensation Issues
When it comes to the overall comfort of your home, drafty and outdated windows can cause a myriad of problems. One of the telltale signs of damaged or ineffective windows is condensation forming on the panes of glass! In this brief guide, our team at Tevelde and Co. will go over the common causes of window condensation and how homeowners in Omaha can mitigate the issue. Read on or contact us today to learn more!
What is Condensation?
Condensation forms when warm, moist air cools and changes from a gas back into a liquid. It is a natural process that occurs all the time – you encounter condensation in the morning when you see dew on the lawn or when your glass of ice-cold water is wet on the outside. However, condensation gathering inside your home – especially on window panes and walls – can be a sign that your home is experiencing issues with excessive indoor humidity or poor ventilation, both of which can cost you time, money, and comfort in the long run!
- Why Does Window Condensation Occur?
- How to Address and Prevent Condensation
- Improving Humidity Levels and Air Flow
- Replacing Windows if Necessary
- Tevelde and Co.’s Trusted Contractors Can Help with Any Window Issues
Why Does Condensation Occur on Windows?
Condensation occurs any time water vapor cools to a point where it returns to liquid form, or at any point in which water vapor becomes so oversaturated with water molecules that it can’t hold any more vapor. Sometimes, this is not problematic. For instance, it’s pretty common for homeowners to see condensation and water droplets gathering after running the shower or boiling water in the wintertime – the steam introduces extra moisture into the air, and the naturally colder temperatures outside cool it down into a liquid.
Sometimes, however, excessive condensation on old windows can be a sign that your home has a moisture problem. This can spell trouble for homeowners – you may be prone to mold, mildew, and other moisture-related issues like warping if your home has consistently elevated humidity levels.
Warm or Humid Air Combines with Cool Glass
As stated above, when warm air meets a cold surface, the water molecules cool down, causing it to change states and turn from a gas into a liquid. Think of it as the inverse of evaporation: rather than water turning into a gas when it’s warm enough, it turns into a liquid when it’s cool enough. Excessive moisture in your home can result in a lot of condensation, even when you haven’t been doing anything to create steam.
Drafty or Leaking Windows Can Accelerate the Problem
Windows with poor insulation or sealing can also accelerate the problem, especially if you have a double-paned window with gaps or leaks. Moisture can enter between the panes of your window glass and begin to gather in droplets, which can lead to water damage over time.
How to Address and Prevent Condensation for Your Windows
There are a few ways that homeowners can help combat the issues that lead to condensation on windows. Let’s explore some of these solutions below.
Use a Dehumidifier in Problem Areas
Condensation is often the result of humidity lingering in the air and being unable to dissipate. If your home has moisture problems, you might consider using a dehumidifier to cut down on excess moisture, especially in areas of the home with running water, like kitchens and bathrooms, or cool, poorly ventilated rooms, like basements.
Improve Air Circulation to Reduce Condensation
Allowing air circulation within your home via fans and vents can be another great way of reducing condensation – the moving air prevents water vapor from gathering on a cooler surface. Keeping your ceiling fan running during the wintertime, especially at cold times of day, like evening or morning, may help prevent moisture from gathering on your windows.
Raise the Temperature on Your Air Conditioner
Sometimes, your A/C unit can be the culprit for cooling down water vapor and causing it to collect in your home. Raising the temperature of your A/C unit can help keep whatever moisture is in the air from turning into droplets that can cause moisture damage.
Replace the Window if You Find Condensation Inside the Panes
If you have a double-paned window and the interior window begins to develop drops of condensation, it means that you may need to replace your window completely. Normally, an insulated double-paned window should resist any moisture from getting between the panes, and any condensation in there means that the seal has failed and that is allowing air to leak in and out of your home. A working, well-installed double-paned window should also be better at preventing condensation inside the home altogether, as the pocket of air between the two panes should ideally keep the window itself much warmer!
Tevelde and Co. is a Top-Rated Contractor for Nebraskans
Are you a homeowner looking for top-rated contracting services in Eastern Nebraska? We’ve got you covered for all of your exterior needs, including window repairs and replacements! Contact our trusted team today for more information.
Trusted Window Repair and Replacement Solutions
Here at Tevelde and Co., we are proud to offer a number of trusted window repair and replacement solutions. Not only do we repair and install new windows like traditional paned windows, skylights, glass doors, and more, but we also offer full-service exterior solutions for your home in Omaha.
We Offer a Full Suite of Exterior Services
As stated above, our team of contractors are highly trained in all kinds of exterior services. These include small repairs, large repairs, total replacements, and maintenance services on siding, roofing, windows, and more, to help keep your property functioning in tip-top shape!
Experts in Siding, Roofing, Windows, and More
Our contractors are experts in siding, roofing, windows, and more – essentially, any exterior service you could need, we can assist you! Not only can we repair and replace siding, roofing, and windows, but Tevelde and Co. can also provide you with the guidance you need to help you determine the right materials and systems for your home, your preferences, and your needs.
Over a Decade of Localized Experience
Our track record here at Tevelde and Co. has demonstrated that we are, above all, dedicated to serving the community of Nebraskan property owners! With over ten years of experience serving the area and countless pleased clients to choose from, we know exactly what our community is looking for in terms of a contracting team!
Article Updated: 5/19/24 | Published: 4/15/24
About The Author: Todd Tevelde
Todd Tevelde wrote this helpful guide about window condensation to help educate homeowners about potential solutions to these issues. Todd is an expert in home exterior renovations and the founder of Tevelde and Co. With over 10 years of experience helping homeowners, Tevelde and Co. has become one of the most trusted contractors in the greater Omaha area. For more information contact Tevelde and Co. today!
Window Services
Financing Is Available.
Sometimes home remodeling projects can’t wait, or you just want to make all your property updates at once. Get the financing you need with approved credit and check out our special offers to make the most of your home remodeling dollars.
