Do you have problems in the winter with dry skin and nasal passages? Is there condensation forming on your windows? In the winter when our houses are sealed tight the humidity level can lead to winter moisture problems. According to Ken Hellevang, an agricultural engineer with the North Dakota State University Extension Service,” a relative humidity of 30 to 40 percent is considered optimum during the winter”.
“Window condensation is one way to tell if the humidity level is off in your house. If the inside temperature is 70 degrees and the relative humidity is 35 percent, moisture condenses on single-pane windows at 30 degrees”, Hellevang says. “With double-pane windows, condensations will form at temperatures below zero. With three layers of glass, condensation will not form until outdoor temperatures are about 40 degrees below zero”, he says.
Condensation will form at higher temperatures if air leakage cools the window surface. If you have cracks in the windows they should be fixed or at least taped to help seal the air leakage. Use weather stripping or caulk any areas around windows and doors where there are noticeable leaks. Even installing plastic thermal covering on windows will reduce air leakage which will commonly contribute to condensation problems.
In addition to sealing cracks and using weather stripping to prevent air leakage, addressing any damage to the glass itself is crucial for maintaining a comfortable and moisture-free indoor environment. Cracked or broken glass not only compromises the insulation of your windows but also provides pathways for moisture to infiltrate your home. This is where professional glass repair services play a vital role. Whether it’s a small chip or a shattered pane, addressing the issue promptly is essential to prevent further damage and maintain the integrity of your windows.
For residents in Tacoma dealing with glass-related issues, accessing reliable Emergency Glass Repair Services in Tacoma can provide peace of mind. These services offer prompt and efficient solutions to address any glass-related emergencies, ensuring that your home remains secure and protected against the elements. By entrusting your window repair needs to experienced professionals, you can effectively mitigate the risk of condensation and other moisture-related problems, allowing you to enjoy a comfortable and well-maintained living space year-round.
A few practical tips to help you stay warm and eliminate mold formation include:
- Open the drapes on sunny days. This will let in the warmth during the day. Closing them at night will help to retain the heat. Make sure that it is not a tight seal to allow for air circulation which will help keep mold from forming on your windows.
- Make sure that your furniture is away from the heat registers to allow for air circulation in your house. Also keep some space between the walls and the furniture for air circulation. If the walls are not insulated well the temperature difference between outside and inside can cause moisture to develop and could cause mold to grow on the walls.
- Closed closet doors can also be a problem . If you start to notice mold growth on outside walls leave the closet doors open to allow for heat to enter and air to circulate.
Watching your homes humidity will keep your house comfortable, help you save energy and keep mold from growing and causing health and structure problems. Remember changes made to improve your homes energy efficiency will also have a positive impact.
Beth, this is an excellent article, and I enjoyed reading this. I know how winter window condensation works, and I can now utilize this information in one of my projects. That makes me happy.