Minneapolis Homeowner Tips: More On Why Condensation Forms on Windows in Winter

Condensation on the insides of windows is a frustrating issue most homeowners in the Minneapolis area have to deal with when it gets cold.  But while it’s a common problem in the winter in Minnesota, it’s more than just an annoyance; that condensation can actually cause damage to your home as well as health problems for those who live in it.

If you haven’t read our recent article on the basics of winter window condensation, please click here to review that information first. 

Things That Can Contribute to Condensation on Windows in Winter

Usually the cause of window condensation can be boiled down to something simple: There is just too much humidity in your home. It’s rarely the fault of the windows. Here are two things that can contribute to formation of condensation.

• The air-tightness of your home:  Older homes tend to leak air in and out, and in the process some of the airborne water vapor leaves. Old construction methods didn’t produce an air-tight home; that’s why you often don’t see this problem in old homes.  But modern construction techniques create a more sealed building envelope; hence water vapor gets trapped indoors.
• Insulation:  If your house is poorly insulated, the walls and other surfaces around the outside edges are going to be cooler, meaning there is greater likelihood for condensation to form.  In some homes, you may even notice condensation forming on hard surfaces, like the walls themselves.

So, in addition to dialing back the production of water vapor inside your home by using exhaust fans especially, and by reducing your humidifier use, here are other things you can do:

• Add insulation on outside walls. You want enough insulation so that the walls themselves aren’t cold to the touch.
• Increase ventilation via use of exhaust vents.  Put your bathroom exhaust fan on a timer so it can run for a few minutes after you’re finished.  Use your stove’s hood exhaust whenever you’re cooking.  Even if you’re not working with something that produces steam, just having the stove top functioning can create some moisture.  And if you’ve got a substantial condensation problem, consider having a whole-house exhaust system installed.

We hope we’ve answered all your questions about why condensation forms on your windows in the winter.  If you’ve tried all our tips and are still having problems, please contact us.  There is a possibility that if you’ve got old windows, the problem is a failed seal or other issue with your windows and it may be time to get them replaced.

Window Outfitters, Inc. is a licensed Minnesota home improvement contractor.  We offer installation of a variety of exterior products, including energy-efficient replacement windows.  We serve the greater Minneapolis and St. Paul area as well as outlying Minnesota communities. We are THE window company for the Twin Cities, and we’re here to help with all your window and door needs.

 

 

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.