Why Does Condensation Occur And How Do I Stop It?

We get asked lots of questions about condensation at this time of year as it’s during the coldest months that it most often builds up on the outside, and sometimes the inside of windows.

When condensation gets really bad, most typically because of poor insulation and heating, not a faulty window, it can cause a host of problems and even have an adverse effect on your health.

This lack of insulation and effective heating prevents the water vapour in the air from escaping, particularly in the winter, and that’s when water droplets form on the cold exterior surface (the glass) of a window.

It is possible to minimise the chances of condensation happening by following these few simple steps…

Dry your washing outside, not inside

Of course, we wouldn’t expect you to hang out your washing outside in icy cold conditions, but whenever conditions allow, snub the radiators and tumble dryer for the washing line as drying clothes indoors causes excess moisture.

Open a window before taking a shower or bath

There’s nothing like taking a long hot soak under a shower or in the bath. Before you get into it, open the bathroom window to let as much of the heat generated escape, rather than keep it trapped inside.

Think about the positioning of your furniture

Refrain from pushing any big pieces of furniture right up against the walls. Ensure you leave a little gap between the furniture item and the wall so that air is capable of circulating around the relevant space.

Keep a lid on things

If you’re ever cooking any vegetables in pans on the hob, fix the lid to each pan to prevent as little steam from escaping as you can.

Replace your single glazed windows

Single glazed windows are very susceptible to condensation. You’d be well advised to upgrade to double or triple glazed windows and then once they’re fitted, investigate how you can improve ventilation.

To help our customers, we have written a guide about condensation that will give you a more in-depth understanding of it. Click here to get your copy.