How to Absorb Condesnation from Windows

The most common cause of damp in a building is condensation, and windows are a major source of it.

If you can absorb condensation from windows, you’ll be taking
effective steps towards combatting the problems it causes.

Window and Wall Condensation in Winsford property

Why is condensation a problem?

Condensation
occurs when warmer, moist air meets a cool surface. The air cools, but can’t
retain the moisture and so releases it into the atmosphere.

If moisture caused by condensation is left on surfaces, it can
prompt mould to form.

Windows do not cause condensation, but they can be a perfect
breeding ground for it because they are the coldest indoor surfaces.

Indoor air is humid, mainly through everyday living, and during
colder months the air is much warmer than that outside. It contracts as it
cools, and moisture condenses on window glass.

Condensation is often first visible on your windows but is likely
occurring in other areas and can lead to the deterioration of plaster, wallpaper,
paint and woodwork.

It can also occur between windowpanes where there is double
glazing, forming too on the exterior of windows.

What then can you do to absorb condensation from your windows and help prevent condensation?

How to tackle interior window condensation

You don’t have to settle for fogged-up or dripping windows because
there are simple things you can do to deal with interior condensation.

Get a moisture eliminator
Moisture-eliminating products are widely on sale, and will remove
excess moisture from the air. Typically they contain crystals that absorb
moisture before converting it into a saltwater solution. You hang the crystals
up with a bucket or similar container on the ground beneath them to absorb moisture
the crystals release.

Switch on bathroom and kitchen extractor fansIf you remember to switch on an extractor fan every time you cook or take a
bath or shower, it will remove moisture from the air. You will need to keep the
fan running for around 20 minutes after cooking or washing. You can install
fans that automatically cut off once the humidity levels are at an acceptable
level. These may be worth your investment.

Improve air circulationIf you have ceiling fans, don’t just use them in the summer when it’s hot.
Using a fan in winter will help circulate the air indoors, rotating in a
clockwise direction to push warm air from the ceiling towards the floor.

Open the windowsAnother thing you may associate more with warmer months, but if you open your
windows regularly in winter it can release some of the warm, moist air trapped
indoors.

Raise the window temperature
The warmer your windows are, the more you can reduce condensation
that gathers on them. Condensation occurs when warm air meets cold window
surfaces, therefore the warmer the window, the less condensation there will be.
You can raise the temperature inside, or use curtains, blinds or drapes.

Install storm windows
Usually made of glass, or rigid or flexible plastic, you can fix
storm windows either temporarily or permanently to your regular ones. As a form
of secondary glazing, they work the same way as insulated glazing and are often
an effective option for older properties. The space between the two windows
helps retain window warmth, thereby reducing condensation on the interior
windows.

Weather strip your windows
Weather stripping helps prevent warm air from leaving a building
by reducing drafts and heat loss. While storm windows can reduce interior
window condensation, they may themselves attract it which is where weather
stripping can help.

DIY window insulationA window insulation kit can be a cost-effective way of insulating your own
windows. They consist of a transparent film you stick to the inside of the
window, trapping air between the window and plastic film; or weather sealing
strips (see above). Note: these are only effective on single-pane,
rather than double or triple-glazed windows.

If you use a humidifier turn it down
A humidifier makes the air in the home less dry. It can help treat
dry skin, and make cold or flu symptoms feel less acute. However a humidifier
also can increase condensation because it releases moisture into the air. Try
turning it down.

Get a dehumidifier
In contrast to a humidifier, a dehumidifier will remove moisture
in your home and absorb condensation. Domestic dehumidifiers come in a range of
models and sizes, from larger models to portable mini versions.

Move your indoor plantsAny plants you have indoors will naturally release moisture into the air. If
you have several houseplants by your windows, try moving some of them to reduce
the concentration of moisture they release.

Consider moving furnitureIf you move your furniture at least 50mm away from external walls, it allows
for air to circulate more freely. If you can, only place wardrobes against
internal rather than external walls.

Positive
Input Ventilation system (PIV)

When you’ve tried some of these
self-help solutions, and you’re still seeing an issue installing a PIV system
could be the way to go. This unit is cited in your loft space and uses positive
pressure to force the moisture laden air out of the property before it has
chance to condense on surfaces.

Condensation in between windowpanes

This can occur in double-glazed windows and it is an indication
that the seal has failed. The condensation becomes trapped between two panes
and has nowhere to go.

If this is the case, the only way to solve the condensation
problem is by replacing the glass.

If left untreated, it can eventually penetrate the wall below
leading to problems such as black mould or even wet or dry rot.

Exterior condensation

Condensation gathered on the outside of your windows is a natural,
meteorological phenomenon.

It doesn’t mean your windows are in any way defective and, with
warmer weather, it will evaporate off the glass.

Contact us

If you’ve got issues with condensation or damp, don’t ignore them.

For more information, phone 07837
450 243, email atlantiscanhelp@gmail.com,
or complete our online
contact form.