We’ve already had snow and below freezing readings in the Twin Cities area lately, so it won’t be long before our office starts getting calls about windows. The #1 question people have this time of year: Why are my windows getting condensation? Those who are particularly upset are people who recently had replacement windows installed, and they can’t figure out why they already have problems with their new windows.
The first thing you should know about condensation forming on the interior side of your windows in the winter is that most often it is NOT the fault of the window. (Now, if there is fogging or condensation between the glass panes, that IS a window issue, but that’s a topic for another article.)
Condensation forms on your windows for the same reason it shows up on a glass of iced tea or a frosty mug of beer on a hot day: moisture plus heat on one side and cold on the other. The greater the temperature difference and/or the amount of moisture in the air, the greater the likelihood condensation will form. Simply put, there is too much humidity in your home for winter temperatures. Yes, we understand the need many homes have to run humidifiers in the winter to keep the air from getting too dry due to your furnace activity, but more is not better.
Humidifiers are not necessary in many homes. Before you get one for yours, we suggest you get a humidistat and measure the level of indoor moisture before you do. Indoor humidity levels in the winter should run between 30-40%, but you should include these factors to determine ‘relative humidity’.
The bottom line? You likely are having condensation on your windows because there’s too much humidity in your home. We’ll have more information on the causes, cures, and problems in an upcoming post on our blog. In the meantime, if there’s anything we can do to help you with your replacement window or exterior door needs, please let us know. You can call us at either of the above numbers, or you can use our handy online contact form.
Window Outfitters, Inc. is a licensed Minnesota home improvement company serving the greater Twin Cities metro area.
Window Outfitters is a premier Window Replacement, doors, siding contractor and installer. As Contractor in the St Paul, Minneapolis, (Twin Cities) Minnesota (MN) metro, we proudly serve, but are not limited to, the following areas: Minneapolis Energy Efficient Vinyl Windows, Replacement Window Contractors Minnesota, Burnsville, Apple Valley, Lakeville, Savage, Bloomington, Edina, Richfield, Eagan, St Paul, Hastings, Minnetonka, Plymouth, Maple Grove, Eden Prairie, Farmington MN, Chaska, Shakopee, Chanhassen, Victoria, Mendota Heights Anderson Windows Minneapolis, Marvin Windows Minneapolis.