Condensation on Windows: What You Can Do About It | Ep. 150

<p>Condensation on windows causes more than unsightly wet glass. It can lead to bigger problems. That’s why Marvin, from Alabama, needs help.  </p> <p>“Our double-pane 20-year-old windows produce lots of moisture every time the outside temperature drops below 45 degrees,” he says. “The moisture then drips down on the wooden windowsill.”</p> <p>Marvin says the water seems to be mostly on the very bottoms of the windows, and his wife wipes it off with a rag each morning to prevent rot on the windowsill.  </p> <p>This couple has a humidity issue. When the outside temperature is below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, the inside humidity should be between 25% and 40%. You can measure humidity with a simple battery-operated hygrometer that costs less than $20.</p> <p>Once you’ve identified the problem, you need to do something about it. In this case, that could mean running the heating system more often to mitigate the humidity issue.</p> <p>If you’re seeing condensation at the bottom of the window’s upper and lower sashes, air could be leaking in. So, make sure the weatherstripping is doing its job, or add new weatherstripping.</p> <p>And don’t forget to use your range hood in the kitchen and bathroom vent fans to keep the humidity down.</p> <p>Finally, you can always purchase a dehumidifier to counter the problem.</p> <p>Listen to the Today’s Homeowner Podcast to learn more about this issue and other home maintenance chores.</p>