Condensation on Inside of New Vinyl Windows
Is it a bad sign if you notice condensation forms on your new vinyl windows inside? is condensation on windows bad?
It isn’t a bad sign if you notice water collecting on window’s inside. But, there are a few things you can do to minimize window condensation and protect quality of your new windows.
What causes condensation? When warm air comes in contact with cool surfaces then condensation can form. Consider a time when you carried an ice-cold beverage outside on a hot summer day. Hot air outside comes in contact with a glass’ cool surface, and then moisture forms on glass’ outside. This reaction is why so many people are adamant about using coasters to avoid damage to tables and furniture.
In this same way, windows can “sweat” on a cold winter day. Inside, you are toasty warm while heat is running. Freezing air outside comes in contact with window glass causing moisture to form on inside of windows. Common daily activities can increase moisture in your post frame building, “sweat” found on windows. A hot bath or shower will release moisture into air. Cooking can also affect humidity levels in your post frame home or barndominium.
Risks of indoor air condensation can sometimes be higher with energy efficient windows. These products seal your post frame building and prevent drafty air from moving through frames. Since your building is sealed, heat and moisture are trapped inside. These features, making your windows more energy efficient, also lock in moisture thus increasing risk of condensation forming.
Many northern climates can be cold and dry during winter months, so many building owners welcome extra moisture inside. Increasing humidity levels make your post frame home more comfortable and reduce need to use lotion every day. Too much humidity can lead to mold growth and other damage to your post frame building. So, it is important you are proactive to reduce indoor humidity if you start to notice problems.
Improve air circulation by running fans. Ceiling fans are great for large rooms or use bathroom or kitchen exhaust fans. If weather is nice outside, open windows to bring in fresh air.
Standing pilot lights are actually fairly simple in design. A gas line terminates in a small burner, where the flame is created. A bit of composite metal wire, called a “thermocouple,” connects the burner to a gas line valve. When the pilot light is lit, thermocouple registers heat and generates an electric current. This current travels down thermocouple to the gas valve and opens it. This is what keeps the pilot light burning. When the pilot light goes out, thermocouple’s electric current stops and gas valve closes. This is a safety measure to prevent gas from flooding your home.
