Steaming windows can be extremely annoying on colder days because they reduce the amount of light coming in and make it impossible to observe the outside world, while also looking very unsightly.
Why do windows fog up?
First of all, it is worth finding out why windows fog up in the first place. By carrying out basic activities in which we use water, and even when we breathe, the humidity of the air in rooms is increased. In newly constructed buildings, dry walls can also cause this increase. The water in the air condenses on cold walls, most often on the windows. Glass is particularly vulnerable to this in winter, when it is cold outside and the heating is on inside.
The reason for this behaviour of the panes and water is:
- Lack of ventilators, windows are too airtight and moisture cannot escape to the outside.
- Incorrectly functioning gravity ventilation, lack of sufficient air exchange in rooms, thus removal of moisture.
- Clogged ventilation ducts can even cause backdraft and humid air to flow back into the room.
How to deal with steaming windows?
Properly functioning indoor ventilation ensures that the air is constantly exchanged and at the same time removes excess moisture and pollutants. The system should work as follows: air should enter the room through, for example, the vents in the windows, then go to the bathroom or kitchen, where the humidity is highest, and then be removed through the ventilation ducts. Therefore, they must be led out over the roof, unobstructed and insulated, which ensures proper draft.
To deal with the problem of steamed up windows in winter, you should ensure that your rooms are well ventilated:
- Install air vents in the windows and air ducts on the outside wall to regulate the amount of incoming air.
- If this is not possible, simply unseal the window. Most windows can be used for microventilation by turning the handle slightly.
- Another way to ventilate is to open the windows for at least two 5-minute sessions per day.
- Make sure the ventilation ducts are unobstructed and, if necessary, contact a chimney sweep to clean them.
- To improve the ventilation, a fan can be installed in the ventilation duct, which should be turned on frequently.
- Investing in mechanical ventilation can bring the desired results. It is quite expensive and not possible to install in every building. The fact is that with such a system, the air flow is balanced.
- A dehumidifier, which removes excess moisture, will be useful.
Moisture between window panes
Moisture between the window panes should be a cause for concern. This is mainly due to a possible leak, which means that it does not function properly – reduced thermal insulation, the formation of unsightly water stains and loss of transparency of the glass. If this is the case, you can try to contact the manufacturer to have the problem fixed under warranty. Leaks often occur due to constructional problems or manufacturing defects.
This problem is virtually non-existent during the warm season of the year, as the temperature differences are not so significant. Warm days are an additional incentive to ventilate more often, but it is worth remembering this all year round, as fresh air has a significant impact on our well-being.
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