Condensation In Carmi, IL: Do You Need Replacement Windows?
Do You Need Replacement Windows? Here’s
What Condensation Means For Carmi, IL
Our Tips For Getting Rid Of Condensation –
And Recognizing When It’s A Problem
When you spot condensation on your replacement windows in Carmi, IL, you need to take a closer look.
Some homeowners panic the moment they see condensation. Others ignore it and hope it goes away. Well-informed homeowners stop and look.
Why? Well, if you know what to look for, it’s easy to tell whether condensation is a problem or not. Sometimes, it’s a quick fix you can do at home. Other times, it’s a serious warning sign for your windows.
Types Of Condensation On House Windows
The secret? Look closely at where the condensation is on your windows. Most modern windows are made with two or more panes. By paying close attention to which panes are experiencing fog or condensation, you can pinpoint the cause.
On The Interior Pane
If the condensation is happening on the inside of your home – think of something you can wipe away with your hand – don’t worry. This type of condensation is mostly harmless and pretty easy to fix.
Condensation is generally caused by warm, humid air touching cold glass. You’ll see this type of condensation in the wintertime. It’s usually a sign that your windows are doing a good job keeping the warm air in and that your house is a little humid.
The only time this condensation can cause problems is if it’s excessive. If there’s enough condensation to pool on your windowsill, it can potentially find its way to the wall and cause water damage.
If this is the case, your home – or the area around your window – is likely extremely humid. You can remedy this by moving plants, furniture, or curtains away from the windows, increasing airflow with a fan, or running a dehumidifier. Turning down the heat may also help.
You should also look for underlying causes if your home is particularly humid in the winter. Check for plumbing leaks or overuse of humidifiers.
On The Exterior Pane
You might notice fog or condensation on the outside of your windows in a few niche cases in the Tri-State Area. This type generally occurs in the summer. You’ll notice it most on humid days or if you keep your home really cool.
If you’re seeing it in the winter, it generally means the window in question is close to an exhaust fan or air vent that releases humid air.
If you want to preserve your view, you can try turning up the thermostat in the summer. Condensation from air vents, however, is just a matter of window or vent placement – which is pretty difficult to change.
Between The Panes
If you’re seeing fog and condensation between the panes of your double-pane windows, you’re in trouble. This type of condensation can’t be wiped away from either side of the window.
It’s a sure sign that your window’s seal has broken, letting water in. When this seal is broken, a window loses most of its insulating properties and becomes a money sink for homeowners.
Unfortunately, there’s no way to fix this problem. Even if you tried to re-seal the windows, the insulating layer of argon gas that keeps your home comfortable would have already escaped.
Stopping Condensation: Is It Time For New Windows?
So, how do you know when it’s time for new windows?
In the first two cases – condensation on the outside surfaces of the window – it’s usually not a problem. However, if the condensation is limited to specific windows, you should pay attention. These windows may be less effective than the others, which could warrant replacement.
Also, if the condensation persists after you’ve taken steps to get rid of it, you should have a window expert come out and take a look.
When it’s the third case – condensation between the panes – replacement is inevitable. By the time you’re seeing condensation there, the window is beyond repair.
Want to solve your condensation woes permanently? Get in touch! During your free quote, our window experts can help you find energy-efficient replacement windows to help reduce or limit condensation in your Carmi, IL, home. Call us at 800-867-5157 to get started.