Why condensation appears on windows. Condensation often occurs after the installation of new windows. How to minimize window fogging and humidity in the house, as humidity is a prerequisite for mold growth.
Condensation and moisture on surfaces are common problems during winter months, and the reasons are clear. Indoor air contains a certain amount of moisture. The warmer the air, the more moisture it can absorb. This is why condensation appears on windows. When warm air comes into contact with cold glass, it cools down and can no longer hold the moisture, which then condenses on the glass. For the same reason, glasses fog up when you enter a house during winter.
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Fogged-up window panes are somewhat of an aesthetic issue because they obstruct the view through the windows. However, if the amount of moisture increases, it can lead to leakage, transferring moisture to the window frame and wall, which can deteriorate over time.
Condensation after installing new windows
It is common for condensation to appear in an apartment after installing new aluminum or PVC windows. The usual comment then is that today’s windows are not made like they used to be, but the truth is quite the opposite. Today’s windows are incomparably better. A modern PVC window seals much better than any older window, even when it was new, let alone several decades later.
Because new windows seal better, more moisture is concentrated in the air, leading to condensation. Old, drafty windows with worn-out sealing strips always allowed the slow passage of dry outside air and forced ventilation. This naturally resulted in higher heating costs.
If you have new windows, the solution is occasional ventilation. During winter, it is necessary to change the air in the room completely two to three times by opening all windows for a few minutes. This efficiently replaces all the air in the apartment without cooling the walls and furniture, allowing the previous air temperature to return quickly with minimal energy loss.
Preventing moisture on windows
To prevent moisture from appearing on windows, it is good to have heating elements placed underneath them. This is one of the reasons why radiators are installed under windows.
Additionally, the amount of moisture in the apartment can be reduced in many other ways. The basic method is to use an extractor hood that directly removes steam when cooking. If you have a humidity problem in your apartment, avoid long showers with hot water, and keep the bathroom closed during showers. Afterward, ventilate the bathroom well to let the moisture out rather than into the living room.
Drying clothes in the apartment and on radiators is a significant source of additional moisture, which eventually has to go somewhere. Use every opportunity to dry clothes outside.
Try to keep all doors in the house open as much as possible so that the rooms are connected. This allows air to circulate, reducing the risk of moisture concentration in one place. Air should circulate freely everywhere, often appearing behind furniture pressed against exterior walls. If possible, move wardrobes away from cooler exterior walls.
Moisture often appears behind beds placed against exterior walls, with pillows or bedding stacked against the wall. If you notice moisture and mold behind the bed, move the bed to allow air circulation. Of course, mold should also be removed from the wall, which we have written about in detail.