Have you noticed water condensation on your windows? We take a look at what causes condensation, whether it’s a problem, and how shutters can reduce window condensation.
What causes condensation?
Condensation happens when humidity in the air reaches a cold surface – such as an external wall or window. The moisture in the air forms on the cold surface as drops of water.
So one of the causes of condensation is the amount of moisture in the air. We add moisture to the air just by breathing. You might also see a lot of humidity if you have an AC system without a dehumidifier, or you air-dry laundry inside your home.
However, having humid air is not necessarily a problem. It’s only an issue if your home doesn’t have enough ventilation or insulation. That’s when you get condensation on walls and windows.
Is condensation a problem?
Condensation can cause problems for your home – and your health.
If you have condensation on walls and windows for a long time, then the water can damage those surfaces. You might notice some paint damage, mold growth, or even damage to wooden window frames.
Mold can also grow inside drywall or furniture, if you have a lot of condensation. And if you have untreated mold in your home for a long time, it could affect your respiratory health.
Condensation on the walls also makes your home less energy-efficient. Why? Because when sunlight shines through the window, all the heat and light gets used up in evaporating the condensation. The condensation stops you getting the benefit of natural light and heat from the sun.
Can shutters reduce window condensation?
So what’s the solution? Well, to start with, you should check that your home is properly insulated and ventilated. If you have AC, you can use the “winter” setting to try and reduce excess humidity.
Shutters can also make a big difference to condensation levels in your home. They’re great for insulating windows, which stops condensation from forming. Plus, they’re easy to clean and don’t retain moisture – so you don’t have to worry about mold building up.