What causes condensation on windows and how do I prevent it?
CONDENSATION is a common problem for many homeowners during the colder months.
Not only do foggy windows make it difficult to see outside, the humidity can also cause mold, which is very harmful to the health of you and your family.
2
So what causes condensation and how do you overcome the annoying problem of condensation and mold during the holidays?
What causes condensation?
Condensation occurs when warm air hits a cold surface.
You can see your breath when you exhale outside, especially when it’s cold, and things like cooking, washing, or showering can also cause fog to form.
A common example in the home is when steam rises from a hot bath, it can end up in your cold bathroom mirror and cause condensation.
The moist water vapor in the air then turns into water droplets that you can see on the mirror.
But when we turn our radiators back on for the winter, the warm air can also cause condensation to form on your windows.
How to clear fog from your home
2
You can prevent condensation in your home by properly ventilating your home. So a daily routine of opening windows and doors and letting air in can really help.
Opening your windows may not be so tempting in winter when we naturally want to keep the cold out, but doing this for a short time every day allows the warm moisture to escape, so it is important to do this.
If you don’t ventilate your home, the moist air is trapped and your windows can fog up.
Keep your home at a comfortable temperature, because one constant temperature reduces the chance of condensation.
Turning on the extractor hood while you cook can also prevent fog from forming while you eat.
If condensation is already a problem in your home, there are some simple ways to get rid of it.
Use a sponge or squeegee to wipe off areas with unwanted water droplets, then dry with a clean towel.
What the experts say
Property Preservation Experts, Peter Cox have suggested a few tips to prevent condensation from forming in your home.
- Make sure furniture doesn’t press against the walls, but leave some space for air to flow
- Do not block the airways, vents or chimney
- Install an extractor hood
- Dry your clothes outside if you get the chance
- Close the bathroom doors
- Use pan lids when cooking
Cheap Condensation Hacks
1. Use salt or cat litter
– Place bowls of salt or silica-based cat litter in areas that are sensitive to moisture. These materials are excellent at absorbing moisture from the air.
2. DIY dehumidifier
– Create a simple dehumidifier using a plastic container with a lid. Make holes in the lid, fill the container with silica gel or activated carbon and place it in damp areas.
3. Ventilate while cooking and showering
– Open windows or use exhaust fans when cooking or showering to allow moisture to escape. Even a small difference can make a big difference.
4. Wipe Windows clean
– Wipe windows and other cold surfaces regularly with a dry cloth to remove condensation. This prevents moisture from accumulating and causing mold.
5. Use houseplants
– Certain houseplants, such as lilies and spider plants, can help absorb moisture from the air. They also improve indoor air quality.
6. Keep lids on jars
– Keep lids on pots and pans while cooking to reduce the amount of steam released into the air.
7. Dry clothes outside
– If possible, dry clothes outside or in a well-ventilated area, rather than using indoor drying racks.
8. Open curtains and blinds
– Open curtains and blinds during the day to allow sunlight to warm the windows and reduce condensation. Sunlight also helps reduce mold growth.
9. Use towels wisely
– Keep towels and other fabrics away from walls and windows to prevent them from absorbing moisture and becoming damp.
10. Seal cracks and holes
– Use inexpensive weatherstripping or caulk to seal any cracks or holes around windows and doors. This helps keep cold air out and warm air in, reducing condensation.
READ MORE:
