With a 76% increase in Google searches for “how to stop condensation”¹, window and door experts at Clearview explain how condensation happens and share tips for managing it before it leads to mould growth and causes potential health issues.
Condensation on windows occurs when warm, moist air comes into contact with cold surfaces. Graeme Bowen, a window and door solutions expert, says, “Homeowners should know that condensation on windows isn’t always bad—it means the windows are doing their job of keeping heat in. However, when two adults are in a bedroom, 1.2 litres of moisture can be produced overnight just by breathing. So, if you see condensation in the morning, it doesn’t necessarily mean you need new windows—but you need to explore preventative measures in the first instance.”
Residents in newer properties may face increased condensation issues since a 3-bedroom house can absorb as much as 7,000 litres of water during construction, which is released as it dries. Modern buildings, sealed with insulation, lack the natural ventilation of older homes, trapping moisture. The best solution, alongside normal heating, is controlled ventilation².
Other sources of water vapour include cooking, showering, washing up, doing laundry, gas or paraffin heaters, and even indoor plants.
Experts at Clearview suggest several preventative steps. First, crack open windows or use trickle vents (if available), especially when cooking or showering. Be sure to use ventilation hoods while cooking and install vents in bathrooms. Use a dehumidifier and always open curtains and blinds during the day if possible. Consider insulation kits and keep windows and areas prone to mould clean. For future planning, it’s advisable to position radiators under windows to help maintain the temperature of the inner glass at a reasonable level.
“As the colder months approach, it’s natural to be concerned about opening windows due to heat loss and rising energy bills, especially with the recent energy price cap increase,” says Graeme. “However, proper ventilation can actually help distribute heat more evenly throughout your home. Additionally, using adequate window furnishings, like thick curtains and blinds at night may prevent heat loss.”
Addressing issues early can avoid costly repairs to paintwork, window fittings, and curtains while preventing health issues caused by mould from untreated condensation.
Pharmacist Abbas Kanani at Chemist Click warns that untreated mould from condensation can trigger respiratory problems: “When spores become airborne and are inhaled, they can irritate the airways of someone with asthma, leading to symptoms such as coughing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, and wheezing. Chronic mould exposure can increase lung inflammation, making airways more sensitive and reactive, increasing the frequency and severity of asthma attacks.
For those without existing issues, other symptoms to look out for include nasal congestion and a runny nose. If you suspect that your health issues are related to mould, especially if symptoms persist and affect your quality of life, you should visit your GP, says Abbas.
Graeme adds, “While condensation doesn’t necessarily mean you need to replace your windows, proper maintenance is essential. Considering double or triple glazing could be a good idea, too. These window options offer better insulation than single glazing, creating a warmer inner glass surface, making condensation less likely to form when warm, moist air comes into contact with cold glass.”
To learn more about controlling condensation and mould on your windows, please visit: https://clearviewdoors.co.uk/news_articles/how-to-stop-condensation-on-windows-prevent-mould/
Sources:
- Google Trends data gathered on 9th October 2024 for the search term “how to stop condensation” shows fluctuations in popularity over time, measured on a scale from 0 to 100. The numbers represent relative interest rather than absolute search volume. In this case, interest increased from 17 on 2nd October 2024 to 30 on 9th October 2024, reflecting a 76.47% increase in interest for this search term.
- Glass and Glazing Federation