Windows - Siding - Roofs - Sun Rooms - Kitchen / Bath Remodel
THE ACRI COMPANY WINDOW CONDENSATION GUIDE
- 1. How Do Vinyl Windows Resist Condensation?
- Windows with vinyl frames help guard against the damaging effects
of window condensation because of the high insulating value of
the vinyl. Double glazed windows are far more effective than single
glazed windows in reducing window condensation because they tolerate
higher percentages of relative indoor humidity before condensation
occurs. This higher allowable humidity level reduces drying of
furnishings and improves the "comfort level" of the living space.
- Windows do not cause condensation. On the contrary, the right windows can be a great help in controlling and reducing it.
- Windows do not cause condensation. On the contrary, the right windows can be a great help in controlling and reducing it.
- 2. What Causes Condensation?
- Condensation on windows is an alarming signal of excess humidity
in a home. When water, fog or ice forms on a window, the consequences
can be devastating. Peeling paint, rotting wood and rusted metal
can all result from this excess humidity.
- Condensation occurs on windows when warm moist air comes in contact with the colder surface of the window. Although it is natural to assume that the windows are to blame, the fact is that the windows are merely a visible sign that humidity exists in the home.
- Indoor moisture is caused by a variety of factors. Common household activities such as cooking, showering, running washing machines and dishwashers -- every activity that uses hot water -- adds moisture to the air.
- Newer homes are more often subject to condensation because they are constructed with more weathertight materials and methods than homes built before energy costs were a concern. Weatherstripping, improved insulation, vapor barriers and modern construction techniques are designed to reduce air leakage. At the same time, however, these can act to seal in moisture. Unless provisions are made to allow this moisture to escape, moisture buildup can result.
- Condensation occurs on windows when warm moist air comes in contact with the colder surface of the window. Although it is natural to assume that the windows are to blame, the fact is that the windows are merely a visible sign that humidity exists in the home.
- 3. Can Window Condensation Be Only Temporary?
- There are several instances when temporary window condensation
can occur, including:
- During showers and baths, cooking, dishwashing and other steam-producing occasions.
- During the start of each heating season. Houses absorb moisture during humid summers. This will generally dry out after a few weeks of heating.
- During sharp temperature changes. Sudden drops in temperature, especially during the heating season, can create temporary condensation problems.
- During new construction or remodeling. Building materials contain a great deal of moisture. When the heat is turned on, this moisture will flow into the air inside the home. It usually will disappear after the first heating season.
- 4. What Can Be Done to Reduce Condensation?
- There are many simple steps that can be taken to reduce the humidity
level in the home:
- Vent clothes dryers, gas burners, etc. to the outdoors.
- Check that all ventilation equipment is adjusted properly.
- Use kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans.
- Air out the kitchen, bathroom and laundry room during and after use by opening a window for a few minutes.
- Make sure attic louvers remain open all year round and that crawl spaces are properly ventilated.
- Consult a local heating and ventilation contractor to help determine whether ventilation is adequate and whether it can be improved.
- Insure humidifiers are correctly set according to the outside temperature.