No matter where or what type your window is, condensation is often an ongoing problem. While this may not seem to be a big issue, over time this can lead to mould and dampness. If this problem is not rectified promptly, this can lead to damage to your home.
In this blog, we will discuss why condensation and mould occurs and how this can be prevented.
What Is Condensation and Why Does it Occur?
Condensation occurs when warm water vapour in the air hits a cold surface and the water changes state, transforming into liquid water droplets. This occurs because warm, moist air is unable to carry as much moisture as it cools.
This causes water droplets to occur on cold surfaces like windows, mirrors and walls. Specifically, condensation occurs when humid air meets a colder surface below its dew point. This makes the water molecules in the air lose energy and become a liquid. Condensation is especially common in homes due to activities like cooking, drying clothes and bathing, which produce warm and moist air.
Condensation is a bigger problem in spaces that are poorly ventilated. The lack of air movement causes moist air to linger and form condensation on cold spots. The probability of condensation also rises if your home has poor insulation.
Why is Condensation a Problem?
Condensation is not bad in and of itself. However, large amounts of condensation can lead to damp and mould growth, which can cause major issues.
From a health point of view, mould, mildew and damp can cause serious problems. It can trigger respiratory problems like bronchitis, asthma and other lung issues, especially for individuals who are vulnerable. It can also contribute to allergies and skin conditions like eczema as damp environments promote dust mites, bacteria and mould. This can cause serious problems with air quality, which has a negative impact on lungs and airways.
Over time, mould, mildew and damp can damage your property. Black mould can impact walls, furniture and ceilings, causing staining and damage. If the moisture is persistent, it can damage plaster, degrade building materials and cause wood rot. It can also cause paint to blister and wallpaper to peel.
Why Condensation Forms on Windows
Condensation on windows is particularly common during winter. This is because homes tend to have high humidity due to everyday activities like cooking, bathing and drying clothes. Just breathing can add high amounts of moisture to the air.
This problem is exacerbated by poor ventilation. When air circulation is poor, moist air is trapped inside the home. Modern, well-insulated and sealed homes can increase likelihood of this problem if there is not sufficient ventilation.
Windows tend to be the coldest surfaces in the home due to them reflecting the outdoor temperature. The greater the contrast between the warm, moist internal air and the cold outside temperature, the higher the probability of condensation. This is especially true for older or single-glazed windows, which have poor insulation.
What Different Types of Window Condensation Means
Condensation can form in different locations on the glass of windows. It can be found on the internal or external sides of the glass or between panes in double glazed windows. Where the condensation occurs can give clues to the underlying cause.
On the Inside Surface
This is a telltale sign of high humidity and a lack of ventilation in the home. This can be rectified by improving air circulation around the house, such as periodically opening the window to let fresh air in.
On the Outside Surface
This is actually a positive sign that your windows are working efficiently to keep heat inside the home. This condensation will evaporate when the sun warms the glass.
Between Panes of Glass
This is a sign that your double-glazed windows have failed due to being poorly sealed. This allows moisture to creep into the gap and indicates that the insulating properties of the window are compromised, and the window needs to be fixed or replaced.
How to Reduce Condensation on Your Windows
There are several simple short term measures you can take to reduce condensation and decrease mould growth in your home. These include:
- Using extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms after activities like bathing and cooking.
- Opening windows for short durations daily to create airflow.
- Air dry clothes outside to prevent adding humidity to the home.
- Keep the doors to the bathroom and kitchen shut to prevent moisture outside these areas.
- Use a dehumidifier to lower air moisture levels.
- Remove any condensation with a soft cloth to prevent it from causing problems.
However, if you want to prevent condensation long term, investing in double or triple glazing is essential.
How Double-Glazing Prevents Condensation
Double-glazing windows in Sydney, reduces heat loss through the window, preventing condensation. The sealed gap between the windowpanes acts as a barrier, preventing cold outside air from cooling down the inner pane of glass.
This stops the heat from escaping and keeps the inner pane warmer. Consequently, when the warm humid air hits the inner pane, it doesn’t cool down enough to reach its dew point. This prevents condensation from forming.
The Benefits of Double-Glazing
Double-glazing your windows has a variety of other benefits:
Energy Efficiency
Double-glazing your window increases your insulation and prevents heat transfer through your window. This keeps your house cool during the Australian summer and warm during the colder months. This helps your house be more energy efficient, reducing the cost of your heating and air conditioning.
Sound Insulation
Due to the extra layer of glass and the insulating gap in between, outside sound is effectively blocked from entering your home. This will help you create a quiet, calm living environment.
Security
Having two layers of glass makes it much harder for intruders to break in. It also makes your windows more resilient against accidental damage.
Oknalux Offers High-Quality Double-Glazed Windows
Defeat condensation today by retrofitting double-glazed windows in your Sydney home. We also install windows and doors in Adelaide. Here at Oknalux, we offer high quality and customisable frames made of uPVC, timber, aluminium and composite aluminium and timber.
If you are interested in our products, call our friendly team on 1300 265 250 or contact us through the live chat feature on our website.
