Replacement Windows - Vinyl Replacement Windows    

Condensation defined: the conversion of a substance (as water) from the vapor state to a denser liquid or solid state usually initiated by a reduction in temperature of the vapor.

In laymen’s terms, condensation (water) is formed when high humidity (warm and moist) air comes in contact with a lower temperature air or surface, which reduces the warm air’s ability to retain the same amount of moisture and therefore water is released to form condensation. Condensation is especially noticeable on non-absorbent surfaces such as windows, tile, mirrors, etc. On the other hand, absorbent materials such as sheetrock, wood, wallpaper, etc. are very good at hiding the problem, which typically goes unnoticed until mold forms and the deterioration (rotting) process begins.

Because metal (aluminum & steel) frame windows and single-pane windows are excellent conductors of heat and cold, they provide the perfect (cold) surface for condensation to form during the winter months, also known as “sweating”. The inside surfaces of these windows can be almost the same as the outside temperature (sometimes below freezing). When your home’s heated air (high humidity) contacts these cold surfaces, large amounts of water is released from the air and deposited on the surface, lending to water damaged wood trim, etc.

With that said, you may be wondering why your new energy-efficient replacement windows show more condensation (sweating) than your old drafty, inefficient windows. Your old windows would allow the humidity in your home to escape (along with heating and A/C). Your new energy-efficient windows are designed to prevent air infiltration into and out of your home by creating an air tight seal, therefore holding in excess humidity. It’s only now, because of this tighter seal, that you are able to notice your home’s excess humidity. Windows serve as visible indicators to warn you that there is too much moisture in the air inside your home. This can be resolved by providing adequate (natural and forced) ventilation to allow air to circulate and by maintaining an even household temperature.

It’s very important to understand that windows cannot and do not produce condensation “water”. Condensation is produced by our normal household living activities (discussed later). We just tend to notice condensation on windows and mirrors first because moisture doesn't penetrate these surfaces. Yet they are not the problem, simply the indicators that you need to reduce the indoor humidity level of your home.