How to remove Condensation on Windows?

 

Understanding Condensation

The air around us contains tiny water vapour molecules that are invisible to the eye. In warm conditions, these molecules stay far apart, allowing the air to hold more moisture. But as the temperature drops, the molecules draw closer together. Once they become dense enough to form visible droplets, condensation occurs—this point is known as the “dew point.”

What Causes Condensation?

Condensation happens when moist air touches a cold surface, like a window. Everyday actions—boiling water, cooking meals, or enjoying a hot shower—release moisture into the air, which often settles on cooler surfaces such as windows or mirrors. Even breathing during sleep adds humidity to the air, making bedroom windows especially prone to condensation in the mornings. 

Here are some of the biggest causes of excess moisture that contribute to condensation in the home. Addressing these areas can help minimize indoor humidity and reduce condensation on windows:

• Cooking, especially when boiling pans or kettles without lids or extractor fans.
• Showers and hot water usage in bathrooms without proper ventilation.
• Washing machines and tumble dryers, particularly ventless ones.
• Drying clothes indoors on radiators or airers, which releases moisture into the air.
• Large indoor houseplants, which transpire moisture into the room.
• Storing wet logs indoors for wood-burning stoves adds moisture to the air.
• Hidden water leaks in walls, floors, or cavities that go unnoticed.
• Rising damp, especially in basements or ground-floor areas.

How to Prevent Window Condensation?

Condensation is primarily caused by poor ventilation, which leads to excess humidity being trapped inside a property. The solution lies in improving airflow to balance the humidity levels indoors and outdoors. 

In the past, homes naturally allowed air to circulate through poorly fitted windows, doors, chimneys, and vents. While this was less energy-efficient, it helped prevent moisture buildup. Today, modern homes are built to be airtight and energy-efficient, but this also means that moisture gets trapped inside, increasing the risk of condensation. 

To eliminate condensation on windows effectively, consider the following steps: 

• Enhance ventilation to allow moist air to escape. 
• Reduce moisture through lifestyle adjustments like using extractor fans and dehumidifiers. 
• Install double or triple glazed windows to improve insulation and minimise cold surfaces that attract condensation. 

Why Single Glazing Is More Prone to Condensation?

Single-glazed glass is particularly prone to condensation because it is highly susceptible to cold temperatures. This makes it easier for water vapour in the air to reach its dew point and form liquid droplets on the surface. 

Condensation With Double-Glazed Windows

Double-glazed window units are sealed with an air gap between the panes, which may contain little moisture. When there’s a significant temperature shift, this moisture can turn into condensation on the inner surfaces of the glass. 

To prevent this, these sealed units come with a spacer bar filled with a moisture-absorbing desiccant—similar to the packets found in new products like bags or shoes. This desiccant works to keep the space between the panes dry by drawing in any moisture. 

However, if the seal on the unit fails, external moisture can seep in and overwhelm the desiccant. Once it becomes saturated, it loses the ability to absorb any more moisture, resulting in visible condensation forming inside the glazing unit. 

How Double Glazing Helps Minimize Condensation?

Double glazing is highly effective in limiting indoor condensation. Unlike single-pane windows, the insulating air gap between the two glass panes in double-glazed units keeps the interior glass surface warmer and closer to the room temperature. This prevents airborne moisture from cooling rapidly and turning into water droplets. 

By upgrading to double glazing, homeowners can enjoy a more comfortable living environment, improved energy efficiency, and better control over condensation issues. 

Eliminate Condensation with Braham Glazing

Upgrade your home with double glazing from Braham Glazing and enjoy more than just a clear view—experience enhanced comfort, energy efficiency, and a stylish finish. 

Condensation isn’t just annoying—it can cause dampness, mould, and long-term damage to your interiors. Our high-performance double-glazed windows are expertly designed to keep your living space drier, healthier, and more comfortable all year round. 

Get in touch with Braham Glazing today to explore our wide range of double-glazing options, repair double-glazing condensation and discover how we can help improve your home. 

FAQs

1-What causes excess moisture in a house?

Excess moisture is typically caused by daily activities like cooking, showering, drying clothes indoors, or the presence of large houseplants. Leaks and poor ventilation can also lead to increased humidity. 

2-How does indoor drying contribute to condensation?

Drying clothes indoors releases a large amount of moisture into the air, which often settles on cold surfaces like windows, causing condensation. 

3-What is rising damp and how does it cause condensation?

Rising damp occurs when groundwater moves up through walls or floors. It introduces moisture into the air, contributing to condensation, especially in basements or ground floors. 

4-How can I reduce moisture in my home?

Improve ventilation, use dehumidifiers, avoid drying clothes indoors, repair leaks promptly, and consider upgrading to double or triple glazing to help manage humidity. 

5-Will better windows help with condensation?

Yes, double or triple glazed windows with thermal insulation can reduce condensation by keeping the inner glass pane warmer and reducing the chance for moisture to settle. 

6-What’s the best way to ventilate my home?

Open windows regularly, use extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms, and consider trickle vents or mechanical ventilation systems to keep air moving.