Window seats offer an ideal place to relax, whether it’s reading a book by natural light or watching the scenery outside. However, mildew is often a problem because the porous nature of seat cushions makes them a great place for it to grow. If this is a problem for you, try these following tips to prevent moisture buildup from causing this destructive nuisance.
Insulation
Even though you probably already have insulation between the seat and the window, you may need to add more to protect against condensation. This most often happens when the warm air inside touches the cold glass of the window and water buildup occurs, then rolls down and collects under the seat.
Condensation
Another problem might be condensation forming on the window before rolling down to settle under the window cushion. To solve this, reduce humidity in your home. If you’ve eliminated an air leak and reducing the humidity that doesn’t take care of the problem, you may need windows which provide better insulation, such as triple-paned or gas-filled.
Leak
When condensation is the problem, there may be an air or water leak in the window frame. The easiest way to determine if this is the problem is to wait for either a very cold day or rain storm, and then check for cold spots or wet spots. Once you find the leak, simply seal it up with caulk and insulate appropriately.
Seat Elevation
Another idea to try is to further elevate your seat cushions slightly. The air gap caused will allow extra air circulation and therefore prevent fluid buildup in the cushions. A few feet of the roofing product called Cedar Breather could be a good option to use for this purpose. Just staple a few square feet of it to your window seat to allow the cushion to breathe.
With a little observation and the know-how of the most common causes of it, you can eliminate mildew from growing on the cushions meant to add comfort to your window seat.
Window seats are just one of the many features that can be added to speciality windows such as picture windows and bay or bow windows. If you have questions about how a unique window design might add to your home’s appeal, give us a call.
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.
