It is quite common to see condensation forming on windows, especially in winter. This is a normal phenomenon in many cases, but it is best to remain alert and ensure that the windows are properly sealed to avoid any problems with water infiltration or unsightly mold.

Factors that can cause condensation

Condensation forms when the ambient air is warmer than the surface it comes into contact with. Thus, when the air in the house is warm (for example, when heating a lot in winter) and it comes into contact with a cold window, water droplets form on the surface. And if the temperature difference is very large, the condensation can even freeze and form frost!

Several factors can lead to fogging on windows, for example:

  • An excessively high humidity level
  • Poor ventilation
  • The choice of materials for window frames
  • Moist air from the basement or crawl space

It can be difficult to determine the source of excessive condensation. That's why it's important to check everything point by point to ensure your home isn't at risk of mold or water infiltration, two problems that are difficult to get rid of once they've taken hold and that may not be covered by your home insurance. Check with your representative.

Indeed, excess condensation can accumulate and create water infiltration, which could go unnoticed for years before being detected. If moisture condenses inside walls and ceilings, it becomes a breeding ground for rot that will then attack the structure. In short, when abundant condensation is observed, it is in one's best interest to react quickly to prevent damage.

When should you be concerned?

Moisture buildup can lead to mold growth. While mold is generally harmless in small quantities and when cleaned quickly, it can affect air quality if present in large amounts. The presence of mold particles in the ambient air can lead to various health problems, especially for people with allergies, asthma, or weakened immune systems, young children, and the elderly. That's why it's necessary not only to clean and dry any surface showing traces of mold, including window frames, but also to address the root cause of the problem!

10 tips to limit condensation

Establishing a lower humidity level while remaining comfortable is the first step to take to limit condensation formation. Here are some simple ways to control humidity in your home:

  1. Monitor the humidity level inside with a hygrometer. In winter, make sure this level does not exceed 40%. However, you must not create the opposite problem either: overly dry indoor air can cause damage to the building and discomfort to its inhabitants. A happy medium is preferable!
  2. During the winter period, if you're feeling chilly, check the humidity level before turning up the heat. By slightly decreasing the humidity level, you'll make your heating more efficient.
  3. Still on the subject of heating, go around the rooms and check if the temperature is similar. Less heated rooms are more susceptible to condensation.
  4. When you cook, shower, bathe, or dry clothes indoors, ventilate thoroughly and close the doors of the rooms to prevent spreading moisture to other rooms.
  5. The rest of the time, leave interior doors open as much as possible to activate air circulation.
  6. If the weather permits, dry your clothes on the clothesline.
  7. In the bathroom, use or install an exhaust fan after showering or bathing to properly evacuate all the humidity. Many are equipped with a very useful timer, and 15 to 20 minutes are enough to dry the room. Don't forget to use a bath or shower mat, which limits water contact with the floor.
  8. In the kitchen, use a lid to limit the release of water vapor and always turn on the range hood.
  9. In winter, don't hesitate to open the windows when the weather isn't too cold to circulate the air: dry air will enter the house while humidity will exit.
  10. In the fall, remove your window screens and store them. Let in as much natural light as possible in winter, which will warm the window glass, limit temperature shock, and thus reduce condensation.

Lastly, if you still see a lot of condensation even after trying everything else, you might want to think about getting new, higher-performing windows. In that situation, it's a good idea to speak with a specialist to get the right recommendations for your home.

Window replacement: a worthwhile investment

Often seen as a costly expense, window replacement is actually a profitable renovation that should be viewed as an investment. Indeed, if you're looking to add value to your property for resale, the Appraisal Institute of Canada (AIC) estimates that more than 60% of the costs incurred by this renovation will be recovered upon sale. New windows are a significant argument in price negotiation. If you're a homeowner, you'll save on electricity and heating costs by installing high-performance ENERGY STAR certified windows.

In any case, there are various window models and installation types that affect costs. Installing a replacement window is more affordable than replacing the entire window, including the frame, and some windows may be more expensive to change due to their type or size. Some contractors may even offer a discount if you have several windows changed at once. Always make sure to work with professionals.

Ultimately, whether you implement simple habits or decide to invest in installing new, high-performance windows, the most important thing is to combat condensation and limit the potential damage it can cause. No one wants to live in a damp house!

Photo : Ozgu Ozden