At first glance, condensation may seem harmless. A bit of water never hurt anyone… right? While this is somewhat true, condensation is bad news for your windows.
If condensation isn’t handled properly, the excess moisture can damage your windows by way of rot and mold. This can reduce the lifespan of your windows, resulting in avoidable (and expensive) problems. The same goes for the surrounding walls and nearby furniture, too.
What’s more, the buildup of mold is unsafe for your family, especially for those who have asthma, allergies, or sensitivities. In this case, mold exposure can cause symptoms like wheezing, stuffy nose, or itchy skin, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Luckily, it’s possible to reduce condensation in your home—and protect your windows—with the following tips:
1. Open your windows
One of the easiest ways to control humidity (and therefore, condensation) is to make sure your home is well-ventilated. To do this, open your windows as much as possible, especially in high-moisture areas like the bathroom and kitchen.
Proper ventilation will also help get rid of indoor air pollutants and bring in some fresh air, which is always a bonus.
2. Use fans.
Similarly, using fans can enhance indoor airflow and reduce humidity. Think ceiling fans, exhaust fans, or even just ordinary standing fans. This is especially important when you have visitors or are cooking up a storm in the kitchen, which can quickly contribute to indoor humidity.
3. Open blinds and curtains
Keep your blinds and curtains open during the day. Not only will this let in natural light, but it will encourage air flow too. Additionally, regularly opening your window treatments protects them from moisture and unsightly, smelly mold.
4. Move plants away from windows
Sure, your plants may love the sunny windowsill—but the feeling may not be mutual. The moisture from plants can contribute to indoor condensation, increasing the risk of damage. Try to move plants away from the windowsill, or at the very least, spread them out to avoid too much moisture building up in one room.
5. Use a dehumidifier
Another easy way to manage condensation is to use a dehumidifier. As its name suggests, this machine will reduce humidity in your home by removing moisture from the air. (It may help ease symptoms of allergies and asthma, too.)
6. Repair cracks and gaps immediately
Moisture can easily find its way through cracks and gaps, so be sure to repair them ASAP. You can use caulk or weather stripping, which is available as foam, rubber, and felt. If you’re unsure how to properly fix leaks in your windows, XO Windows can help.
Contact XO Windows for all your window needs
With these easy tips, you can reduce condensation in your home once and for all. It’s the best way to avoid window damage and extend the longevity of your fixtures.
But of course, every window will eventually need to be replaced. Should you need a window replacement, contact us at XO Windows. As the biggest window distributor in Arizona, we proudly offer a diverse range of window styles, sizes, and materials.
To get started, request a free estimate online or call us at (602) 396-4825 today.