The autumn and winter seasons mean dark mornings, cold weather and rainy days. However, it is indoors where the real challenge lies. Condensation on windows and sliding doors becomes annoyingly common during the cooler months.
In addition to blocking the view outside, condensation can drip onto the floor or even freeze onto the glass if temperatures continue to drop. The question is – what’s to blame for condensation levels within your home? And more specifically, does your choice of windows help or hinder conditions?
Could your windows be to blame?
Condensation on the inside of your windows is likely the result of excess humidity, regardless of whether you have single, double or triple glazed units. Condensation on windows and sliding doors is the product of cold air from outside meeting warm air inside. When temperatures plummet, this warm air will collide with cold surfaces like the glass on windows and doors to create fog and water droplets. Warm air holds considerably more moisture than cold air, moisture that is then deposited on the glass.
When is condensation most likely to strike?
Condensation can be a problem all-year-round for householders, but is more prevalent in the autumn and winter months. During summer, your condensation issue is more likely to be caused by other sources of moisture. The air is also warmer outside in summer whilst windows are generally left open to allow adequate ventilation.
Whatever the season, resolving your condensation problems sooner rather than later is important. Insurance specialist AXA explains:
“While a bit of water might sound harmless enough, if condensation isn’t dealt with immediately it can go on to encourage black mould to start growing on your walls, ceilings, and around your windows. Not only is this stuff unattractive, having a lot of it in your home can lead to certain unpleasant health issues including sinus problems, skin rashes, and even bronchitis.”
How can I solve the condensation issues in my home?
Condensation can be prevented with the right care. In short, controlling it is all about lowering the amount of humidity within your home. Everyday activities, such as cooking, washing clothes, drying clothes, showering and using your central heating, generate excess moisture. When completing tasks like these, make sure rooms are sufficiently ventilated.
The little things are also important. For example, keeping lids on pans when cooking or opening a window when you shower can make a huge difference, all without spending a penny. Shutting doors to moisture-prone rooms, like kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms on cold nights, will also prevent humid air from making its way into other rooms. For those looking to longer term solutions, ensuring appropriate insulation and ventilation is vital. Dehumidifiers and extractor fans are great investments. Upgrading your windows to double glazed units ensures the glass stays much warmer and condensation levels are made more manageable.
Interested in finding a long term solution to condensation with a window upgrade? Then you’re in the right place! Contact our friendly team to discuss your requirements today.