We’re still in the thick of a chilly Wisconsin winter, so let’s talk about an issue that many people are puzzled by – why do our windows get wet in the wintertime?
We tend to think that cold winter air is dry – but there’s actually still plenty of moisture in the air. You might spot water collecting on your windowpanes, windowsills, and even on walls around your windows. While it might just look like a few drops, it can do serious damage to your home and even your health.
Why Does Condensation Form On Window Interiors?
Condensation forms on your windows when the warm, humid air from your home’s heated rooms meets the cold surface of your window. Cold air cannot hold as much moisture as warm air, so the humidity—or water vapor—starts to deposit itself onto the glass in water droplets.
As the water builds up on the glass, it can begin to drip down into the window sill. If your home is cool enough (or your windows are older or drafty), the condensation can even freeze on the glass.
Here are some great examples of properly insulated areas:
These windows are insulated with minimally expanding foam sealant between the unit and rough opening continuously to create an air seal. This home will have a RVI High-Performance Insulation system and exhaust-only ventilation strategy for the whole house and spot ventilation.
Why Does Condensation Matter?
Aside from obscuring your view out the window, a build-up of water on your sills, walls, or floor below the window itself can result in damage to the wooden sills, the staining of drywall, or even peeling off paint or wallpaper if left unattended.
What’s more, a buildup of mold or mildew can cause respiratory problems, respiratory infections, allergies, or asthma. Damp and mold can also affect the immune system, making you more susceptible to colds and other illnesses.
Put simply, condensation on your windows is bad for your home and bad for you and your family. Luckily, there are ways from preventing these issues from ever coming to the fore. Head over to our detailed blog post to explore how to fix and prevent moisture build-up on window interiors.
If you have any questions or want a building science expert to come and have a look at your home in Northern Wisconsin, feel free to get in touch with a member of our friendly team.
