Please feel free to submit any question you may have about home related issues to info@mmhomecenter.com and we will post the answers up for you within a few days!!

Don from Amherst writes in: It seems that my windows have a build up of moisture on them and looks like they sweat. I recently purchased what I thought was top of the line windows from The local big box store. Do you think its a problem with my new windows?

Ok Don,

Windows sweat due to moisture building up on  the glass. While occasional sweating is not uncommon in most homes, prolonged  sweating can lead to mold and mildew. Figuring out the reason your windows sweat  can be difficult, but fixing the problem is usually simple.

  1. Humidity

    • Humidity in the home can cause windows to sweat. Use a dehumidifier to help  eliminate the moisture in the air, which can condense on the windows. Be sure to  empty the water container regularly. Depending on how humid it is inside your  home, you may have to empty the reservoir several times a day. If you use a  humidifier and have a problem with sweating windows, you may be running it too  much. Turn off the humidifier for a week or so and see if the problem corrects  itself.

    Temperature

    • If the temperature in your home is warmer than the temperature of the glass,  your windows will sweat. This is the same concept as pouring a glass of iced tea on a  hot day. The glass will sweat because it is colder than the air around it. This  can happen on very cold days when the outside temperature is much lower than the  inside temperature. To remedy excessive window sweating, place a portable heater  or some other heat source in front of the window to help heat up the  glass.

    Old Windows

    • Older windows may have only single-pane glass which is more prone to  sweating. Fix older windows by adding storm windows. New windows use thermal  technology to prevent sweating. When purchasing new windows look for thermal  insulated or double panes to help eliminate the problem of sweating  glass.

    Daily Activities

    • Sometimes the normal routines of life can make your windows sweat. Anything  you do that puts moisture into the air will cause your windows to sweat. You may  notice that the windows sweat when you cook or take a hot shower, which sends  steam and heat into the air. Adding vents to the kitchen and bathroom  can help control this. Lowering your thermostat can also help with steaming  windows

Hope this helps!!