What Does Condensation on Windows Mean?

Condensation is when warm, moist air meets a cold surface, turning the moisture in the air into water droplets. Think of it like your mirror in the bathroom, the mirror fogs up after a hot shower because the warm, moist air inside the bathroom hits
the cooler surface of the mirror and condenses. This often occurs on window surfaces when the temperature difference is significant during colder months.

Specifically, condensation on windows indicates issues with:

✓ Home ventilation
✓ Air circulation
✓ Windows or Insulation

There are three main types of condensation: interior condensation (inside the home), exterior condensation (outside the house), and condensation between glass panes.

Interior Condensation (Inside the home)

If this happens inside your window glass, it means your home has high indoor humidity. This commonly happens due to everyday activities like steaming from hot showers, cooking without exhaust fan, or even just from breathing.

Persistent indoor window condensation can lead to the growth of mold or mildew, damage to wood or paint, increased allergens and dust mites, unpleasant odors, and reduced indoor air quality.

Try these simple ways to help cut down on the humidity in your home:

✓ Get your HVAC system checked
✓ Use a Portable Dehumidifier or Install a Whole-Home Dehumidifier
✓ Run Kitchen and Bathroom Exhaust Fans
✓ Leave Interior Doors Open and Circulate the Air

Exterior Condensation (Outside the House)

Exterior window condensation is most common during the summer as a result of the temperature difference between a cool interior and warmer outdoor air. This happens because most homeowners have their windows shut and the AC is on. Condensation on the outside of windows usually means that there is nothing to worry about. In reality, it means your house is relatively efficient.

Although you can try to reduce the condensation on the exterior of your windows by trimming the shrubbery near windows and doors and by raising the temperature setting of your Air Conditioner.

Condensation Between Glass Panes

The condensation between glass panes means that the Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) comes in contact with outside air, indicating that the seal around the IGU has failed.

Some reasons why your windows are foggy between the panes is a seal failure, the insulating gas (like Argon or Krypton) inside the glass has likely escaped, the outside air is getting inside the unit, causing moisture to build up, your windows aren’t as energy-efficient as they should be, and you may start noticing some leaks or reduced insulation.

If you notice condensation between the glass panes of your window, it’s probably time for window replacement.

To discuss solutions that better suit your needs, you should contact our expert team at Vinyl Windows Fashion and schedule a free consultation.