Why Window Condensation Happens (and How to Stop It)

Unless it happens between the panes, condensation on windows doesn’t indicate poor energy efficiency. In fact, it’s the opposite because it means your Nashville home is airtight and has an excellent thermal enclosure system!

Condensation (or frost when it’s extremely cold) is not a window issue. It’s actually a case of excessive indoor humidity. The moisture in trapped warm air turns into liquid upon touching colder surfaces like window glass, producing tiny droplets of water. When left unchecked, condensation can wreak havoc on susceptible construction materials.

Renewal by Andersen® of Nashville recommends the following to address your home’s humidity problems:

Have Good Ventilation Across the Board

Provide an escape route for moisture. Humid rooms, such as the kitchen and the bathroom, must have exhaust fans to blow the warm air out. If you have gas appliances, like a forced-air furnace, vent them outside.

Operating units, such as casement, sliding, and double hung windows, are excellent ventilators themselves. However, it’s only wise to use them to expel excessive indoor moisture when your cooling or heating unit isn’t running, and the weather isn’t extreme.

Cover Your Crawl Space With a Vapor Barrier

Laying down a vapor barrier in the crawl space helps prevent the moisture in the earth from getting into the finished spaces above. It doesn’t work on puddles, though. You need to identify and address the cause of standing water to keep your home dry and healthy.

Invest in Dehumidifiers

Dehumidifiers reduce humidity levels. If you notice frequent condensation on certain windows despite having a good ventilation system, get these appliances to extract the moisture from indoor air.

Upgrade to High-Performance Windows

Picture, bow, and bay windows with Low-E coatings, an argon gas filling, and a warm-edge spacer are less likely to encourage condensation. They minimize heat transfer, keeping their surfaces stay warm enough to keep water vapor from becoming liquid.

Turn to Renewal by Andersen of Nashville to equip your rooms with energy-efficient windows and elevate your home’s condensation and frost resistance. Call us at (866) 609-5033 now to set up your free, in-home consultation in Murfreesboro, TN, or any neighboring area.