Window condensation is perhaps one of the most misunderstood phenomena, but it doesn’t always indicate a problem with your windows. As one of the foremost window companies in Michigan, Kroll Construction shares how to recognize the 3 different kinds of window condensation and which ones to worry about:
Condensation on the Interior Side
Glass is a naturally conductive material, which makes traditional single-panel windows inefficient against heat transfer. Today’s energy-efficient windows have dual glass panels, separated by a sealed airspace. Eliminating contact between interior and exterior surfaces makes the window glass far less conductive. If you find condensation forming along the interior facing side, often along the bottom and corners, don’t worry. It means your window seals are working.
You do have to control your indoor moisture levels, though, as a humid interior space is a perfect environment for mold and mildew growth. It can damage fabrics and books as well as trigger allergies and respiratory problems. Fortunately, controlling indoor humidity is relatively simple. Use a dehumidifier or kitchen exhaust vents to allow steam out, or simply open your windows.
Condensation Between Glass Panels
If you see condensation forming in the airspace between the interior and exterior glass panels, this means the seals on one or both sides have failed. Water doesn’t readily evaporate once inside the glass panels, so it’s more likely to stay and cause water stains or even discoloration. Worse, broken seals will allow heat transfer, which ultimately leads to costly energy bills. Talk to us about getting replacement windows with superior seals.
Condensation in the Center of Glass Panels
Dual-panel glass can be filled with an inert gas like argon or krypton, which enhances its insulation much like blown-in wall insulation does. When a leak forms and releases this gas fill, the airspace remains a vacuum, like a juice box that’s been sucked empty. The glass panels draw closer together, allowing contact between interior and exterior surfaces. This also produces distorted reflections, which is more noticeable on grille-less window styles like picture and casement windows. Low-quality glass can also break spontaneously if the panels draw too close, so it’s usually best to have the issue addressed by experts as soon as possible.