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Water Condensation and Your New Windows

You just spent thousands of dollars on new windowpanes that really made a stunning change in your living room. However, after only a few days you begin to notice the glass fogging up. Worse, you also observe water dripping from the pane edges and onto your floor. What a disaster! The following discusses possible causes to this issue as well as recommended solutions for remediation.

Potential Cause of Condensation

The most probable cause of condensation is related to the humidity inside the home. Water vapor condenses at a certain temperature called dew point. A higher relative humidity would result to a dew point that is close to the air temperature. That is why the inner panes of glass panels would easily form beads of moisture if the relative humidity were high.

A potential cause for high humidity is that the new windows have completely sealed the house from air leaks coming from outside. These air leaks were present when the old windows were still in place and this incoming air can lower the humidity indoors.

Other causes of moisture indoors that contributes to high humidity includes moisture from crawlspaces, plants, laundry, aquariums, kitchen activities and other sources of water done indoors.

Ways to Remediate Condensation

The following are ways to minimize the formation of condensation on windows.

  • Purchase a hygrometer to measure RH or relative humidity. The optimum RH level is between 40 to 50 percent.
  • Create air movement indoors by using air blowers, particularly near the windows.
  • Use a dehumidifier to bring relative humidity down to optimum levels.

Preventing Condensation in Windows

To prevent windows from forming condensation, the following actions can be done.

  • Cover exposed crawlspace soil with vapor retarders.
  • Make a reduction on the number of watered plants indoors.
  • Turn on exhaust fans while cooking or boiling.

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