Waking up to windows that are dripping with condensation is one of the more depressing sides to living in a climate like Britain’s. Very often, regular build-ups of condensation on the glazing on the inside of windows is a sign that the window has failed and needs replacing. But what causes condensation and why is it bad news for both your health and your property? In this Advice section we will explore these questions and look at some top tips to this age-old problem.
Why does condensation form on windows?
The culprit behind condensation is simple science – temperature and humidity. Warm air holds more moisture than cold air. When this warm, humid air encounters a colder surface, like a window pane, the moisture condenses (changes from water vapour to liquid), forming water droplets. This typically happens during colder months, instead of summer months, when the outside temperature plummets,bringing with it cold outside air, while your indoor central heating keeps the air warm and potentially more humid, leading to excessive moisture.
Here are some common causes of condensation on windows:
- High humidity levels: Everyday activities like cooking, showering, using your washing machine and drying clothes indoors all contribute to your room temperature and moisture in the air.
- Poor ventilation: Homes with inadequate ventilation trap humid air, allowing it to settle on cold surfaces.
- Single-glazed windows: Single panes of glass lack the insulating properties of double or triple glazing, making them more susceptible to condensation.
- Broken seals in double-glazed windows: If the seal between the panes in a double-glazed unit fails, moisture can enter the cavity, and higher moisture levels can cause condensation to appear within the panes themselves.
Why is condensation bad for you and your home?
Window condensation isn’t just an eyesore. It can create a breeding ground for mould and mildew, which can trigger respiratory problems, allergies, and even asthma, especially for vulnerable people. Additionally, excessive condensation can lead to:
- Damage to window frames and sills: Constant moisture exposure and moist air can cause damp problems, wood to rot and paint to peel.
- Increased energy bills: As condensation insulates windows, reducing their effectiveness, your heating system needs to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature.
Can condensation be beaten?
Now that we know what condensation is and does, let’s explore some effective ways to prevent condensation on your windows:
- Replace your windows: Old windows are at more risk of condensation, so replacing them with new, high performance windows is a great first step.
- Increase ventilation: Open windows regularly, especially during and after moisture-producing activities. Consider installing extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms for better air circulation and better air quality.
- Reduce humidity levels: Invest in a dehumidifier to draw excess moisture from the air.
- Maintain a consistent temperature: Avoid drastic fluctuations in indoor temperature. Aim for a constant, comfortable temperature around 18-21°C (64-70°F).
- Dry laundry outdoors (weather permitting) or in a well-ventilated room.
Double glazing: A powerful solution
Upgrading to double-glazed windows of the kind we supply at SEH BAC is the best way to combat condensation and prevent damp patches and cold spots. Double glazing consists of two panes of glass separated by a sealed cavity filled with air or inert gas. This creates an insulating barrier, reducing heat loss and preventing the cold outer pane from chilling the inner pane enough to cause condensation.
SEH BAC offers EcoMAX Glass™ as standard on all standard new windows, including uPVC and aluminium, because it is the most sustainable and eco-friendly glass unit on the market, using more recycled materials than any other glass unit in the UK. Installing our double glazing will significantly reduce your home’s carbon footprint. You should also notice that condensation is significantly reduced when you replace single glazing for modern double glazing.
What are the other benefits of SEH BAC double glazing?
SEH BAC double glazed windows offer several advantages beyond superior condensation resistance:
- Improved thermal insulation: By minimizing heat loss, SEH BAC windows can significantly reduce your energy bills.
- Enhanced noise reduction: The additional air or gas cavity in double glazing acts as a sound barrier, keeping your home quieter.
- Reduced risk of damage: The improved insulation on our windows helps protect your window frames and sills from moisture damage.
By investing in new uPVC windows with SEH BAC and implementing good ventilation practices, you can effectively prevent condensation and healthier indoor air quality, creating a healthier and more comfortable living environment while saving money on your energy bills. For more information about SEH BAC and our replacement windows, contact us here or give us a call on 0800 666 444.
