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When Should You Sweat Foggy Windows?
Updated: Tuesday, January 10, 2012 - 1:43 PM
You may think I'm all wet, but I've decided to talk about
condensation, only because I receive a lot of questions about foggy
windows in the winter.
Apparently, I'm not the only one.
"We often get calls from homeowners who are concerned that their
windows are 'sweating' or leaking either inside or outside the home
because they see moisture on the glass," says Christopher Burk,
technical product manager at Simonton Windows in Columbus,
Ohio.
That's simply not the case.
"While condensation may collect on the interior or exterior of
energy-efficient windows, the units are really doing their job by
helping serve as a barrier in the home," Burk says.
Windows don't cause condensation. They just prevent the moisture in
the home from escaping to the outside.
"If the inside glass surface on double- or triple-glazed windows
show excessive moisture, you can be reasonably sure that the
moisture is also collecting on your walls and ceilings," Burk says.
"This means you should take steps to reduce the humidity level in
your home by using exhaust fans and dehumidifiers."
A lot of the water vapor is created by the inhabitants.
A family of four can add a half pint of water vapor every hour to
the home just through normal breathing and perspiration. And, if
you take a five-minute shower, you produce another half pint of
water vapor. Even the simple act of cooking dinner on a gas stove
can produce two and a half pints of water vapor.
Water vapor is part of our lives and our homes. To help control the
amount of condensation in the home, experts at Simonton Windows
recommend the following tips:
Use kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans.
If you have a humidifier, set it to the correct outside
temperature.
If your home is overly humid, or if you have a damp basement, use a
dehumidifier.
Properly vent clothes dryers, gas appliances and stoves.
Open a window in the bathroom.
Make sure your attic, basement and crawl spaces are well-ventilated
and free from obstructions.
Store firewood outside. Freshly cut wood can consist of up to 45
percent water, which adds water vapor to the home. Even
well-seasoned firewood generally has a 20 percent to 25 percent
moisture content.
Open curtains and blinds to allow more air circulation around your
windows.
Homeowners with the most cause for concern are those with older,
less efficient windows.
"Windows are just like any other major part of the home," Burk
said. "They wear out over time and need to be replaced. If your
windows have air leaks, don't close properly, or are failing to act
as a solid barrier to the environment, then it's time to consider
replacing them with energy-efficient windows."
Burk also recommends knowing the difference between condensation on
the glass and between the glass panes of the window.
"If you see moisture, fogging or cloudiness between the panes of
glass in your window, this indicates that the seal of your window
has failed and it's time to get a new window," Burk says.
"Failed seals lack the energy efficiency and features necessary to
help you keep energy bills low and enjoy comfortable living in your
home," he said.
"While condensation on the interior or exterior of the glass is
manageable, moisture between the glass needs swift attention by
homeowners," according to Burk.
By Alan J. Heavens
