Condensation On The Inside Of Windows

Published on Wednesday June 8, 2022

If you’re dealing with condensation on inside of windows, then you’re fully aware of the immense irritation involved in not being able to see outside your home. Window condensation is not only annoying, but it can end up damaging your home in certain situations. Neglected condensation can lead to wood rot, molding decay, and even damage to your plaster. It also creates excess moisture in your home which can damage more areas than just in and around the windows.

If you’re wondering, “Why is there condensation on my windows?” and hoping to learn how to stop condensation on windows, you’re at the right place. We will help you understand exactly why you’re dealing with condensation on the inside of windows and how to eliminate the issue to keep your home protected.

What is Condensation?

Condensation is a fascinating process. It’s the reverse of evaporation — where liquid water becomes vapor —condensation is when water vapor becomes a liquid. Condensation happens when water droplets begin collecting on a cold surface due to the humidity in the air coming in contact with that cold surface. It’s a common occurrence on windows because usually, the surface of a window is colder than the walls, which are full of insulation.

If you’re hoping to learn how to stop condensation on windows, you have to identify where the condensation is occurring. Is it inside or outside your windows? Is it between the window pains or on the surface? The more you learn about the condensation issue you’re facing, the better equipped you are to resolve the problem.

What Causes Window Condensation?

If you came here wondering, “Why is there condensation on my windows?” then don’t skip this section. Here you’ll gain clarity on the possible reasons behind why you’re dealing with condensation, whether it’s on the inside, outside, or between your window pains.

Condensation on Inside of Windows

When you’re dealing with condensation on the interior surface of your windows, know that this occurs because there is warm, humid air coming into contact with the cool glass. This type of window condensation is most common during the winter months due to the cold, dry air outside meeting the warm, toasty air inside.

The air inside your home is likely more humid than the outdoor air. This can be true whether you run a humidifier during the winter or not. Normal daily activities such as cooking, exercising, bathing, and breathing all lead to humidity inside your home.

A lot of homeowners implement weather-sealing strategies — like replacing drafting windows, weather-stripping doors, and increasing roof insulation — to battle the winter cold, but these things all mean a home will retain more humidity. That leads to more condensation build-up on the windows and other surfaces, which increases your risk of mold and mildew growth. When you notice condensation on the inside of your windows, it may be time to reduce your home’s humidity.

Condensation on Outside of Windows

From what we’ve learned about condensation, seeing it on the outside of your windows means the outdoor air is warmer and more humid than the indoor air. This situation is most commonly seen during the summer months when indoor AC units are running at full blast. This presents less of a risk to your home since there isn’t any excess humidity building up inside your home. The exterior of your home is designed to better handle weather changes, including moisture build-up.

Condensation Between Window Panes

If you notice condensation between your window panes, this is most likely due to a leak in the seal. When your window pains spring a seal leak, moisture can creep up between the glass and cause some unsightly condensation. In most cases like these, a window replacement is the only way to resolve the problem.

How to Stop Condensation on Windows

1. Turn Down the Humidifier

If you use a humidifier in your home and start to notice condensation building up on your windows or mirrors, it’s time to turn that down a bit. While a humidifier is a great way to improve your air quality, especially in the winter months when the air is dry and cold, condensation build-up is a clear indicator that you’re adding too much humidity to the space. Too much moisture in the air will only lead to problems.

2. Use a Dehumidifier

A great way to reduce the air moisture in your home is to use a portable dehumidifier or install a whole-home dehumidifier. These are electrical devices that extract water from the air to improve your air quality and protect your home from mold and mildew. They can eliminate musty odors, prevent bacteria growth, and reduce the condensation on your windows.

3. Utilize Exhaust Fans

Cooking and bathing are two normal activities that can cause a lot of excess humidity in your home. If you have an exhaust fan over your kitchen stove or exhaust fans in your bathrooms, try flipping them on to help remove moisture from the room. This is especially helpful while you’re cooking or while you’re showering. It can be challenging for moisture to escape your home so use these fans to improve your air quality and reduce the amount of humidity in your home.

4. Open Some Windows

If you’re seeing condensation build-up on your windows, it might be time to increase your air circulation. Try opening up a few windows to let your home vent properly, releasing humidity and helping prevent excess humidity build-up. This is an especially good idea in the spring and fall when the outdoor air is fresh and pleasant.

5. Use Ceiling Fans

Another great way to improve the airflow in your home is to turn on your ceiling fans. This is helpful even in the winter months since you can push warm air down from the ceiling and keep it circulating.

6. Trim Shrubbery and Plants Near Windows

Trimming any plant life that’s in the way of your windows is a great way to increase air circulation. It also gives the sun more of a chance to warm up a window in the wintertime, preventing condensation build-up since the water evaporates faster.

7. Replace the Window Panes

This is your best option if you’re dealing with condensation between the glass in your windows. You have to replace the glass units or the entire window. If your windows are old, this may even be a great step to making your home more energy-efficient. Window technology has advanced over the years so if you have old windows, new windows might end up serving you very well.

Long Windows Can Help

If you need help replacing your windows to reduce the condensation build-up, reach out to Long Windows. Our experts can help advise you on your options. If you’re looking for high-quality window replacements, the experts at Long Windows can get the job done. Find your closest Long Windows location today.