When the outdoor air is cooler, you rely on heating to keep your home warm and comfortable. The difference between the outdoor and indoor temperatures can result in condensation on the windows. Keep reading to learn why this happens, when condensation means trouble and how to prevent it.
How Condensation Forms Quite simply, condensation is the result of warm air meeting a cold surface. Air naturally contains water vapour and the warmer the air, the more water it contains. When air encounters a cold surface, it cools down until it reaches its dew point. That’s the temperature at which water vapour precipitates into liquid water droplets, or condensation. A lot of our daily activities, from showering, to cooking, washing dishes and laundry, involve adding even more warm water to the air. Even breathing adds warmth and moisture to the air. Older homes often don’t have as many issues with condensation because they are well ventilated, but not very well insulated. Newer homes, with their focus on energy efficiency, tend to be well insulated, but not very well ventilated, which is why condensation is a problem even in the newest of homes. Condensation is a natural reaction, but it can be a problem if it leads to the development of mold on the window frame or nearby walls. Preventing Condensation A well-insulated house means that your monthly energy bills will be lower, but that you’ll have to take charge of ventilating your home. To prevent excessive moisture from forming on windows and walls, take the following steps: • Crack a window whenever possible to allow moist air to exit and fresh air to enter • Have your ducts cleaned to ensure proper airflow throughout the house • Install a heat recovery ventilation system to recycle the heat in the air before ventilating stale air outside • Install proper ventilation in the kitchen, bathroom and laundry room • Use exhaust fans in the bathroom, both while you’re in the shower and for several minutes afterwards to reduce the humidity in the air • Lower the thermostat a few degrees • Replace older single-pane windows with double or triple-pane vinyl windows Consult the Vinyl Window Experts in Ottawa If you’d like to learn more about the latest energy-efficient window solutions, come to Canadian Comfort Windows & Doors today. We’ve proudly provided cost-effective and eco-friendly vinyl windows, doors and siding to homeowners all across Ottawa for more than 50 years. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to request a free estimate.