Ask The Expert Answer

Why does condensation occur on the inside of my windows?

Posted July 20, 2011 by The MIWD Resident Expert    

This is a common problem in cold climates during the winter, when windows can be some of the coolest surfaces in the home. Condensation will typically appear there before it appears on other surfaces. Condensation is less likely to occur on interior walls, because they are typically warmer than "dew point."

The "dew point" is the temperature at which condensation will occur for a given humidity level.

To reduce or eliminate excessive condensation, the humidity level must be decreased and/or the ventilation increased

You can removed the amount of moisture in the air of your home by using a household demhumidifier or increasing the amount of ventilation.

Before investing in a dehumidifier or an HRV, check the structure for other possible moisture sources. Ensure the appropriate insulation and moisture barriers are installed in the attic, basement or crawlspace. Check for seepage in the basement.

Tags: condensation, double glazing, double pane glass, humidity

Recent Posts

• My windows have storm windows. I am looking at replacing these windows with new ENERGY STAR qualified windows, but they don’t have a storm window. Does not having a storm window reduce their efficiency?


• As I look at your patio door configurations, what is the difference between the "OXXO" and the "XIIX"? We are wanting to have our patio doors open all the way to one side or the other.


• Window measurements seem confusing. Is a 3050 window 3 feet by 5 feet or 30 inches by 50 inches?


• What is the difference between Design Pressure, Performance Grade, and Structural Test Pressure


• What's the Difference between U-factor and R-value in Energy Efficient Windows?


• What is the difference between conduction and convection through windows?

Tags

• replacement windows
• energycore
• MI energycore
• MIWD
• energy efficient windows
• condensation
• double glazing
• double pane glass
• humidity
• window egress
• emergency
• building codes
• escape
• residential codes
• double hung window
• pocket sill
• sloped sill
• hybrid sill
• energy core
• design pressure
• DP rating
• performance class
• performance grade
• window testing
• AAMA
• tempered glass
• annealed glass
• u-value
• r-value
• heat transfer
• energycore windows
• structural test pressure
• NAFS
• how to measure a window
• window measurement
• new construction windows
• conduction
• convection
• air inflitration
• operating panels
• xoox