Doors and Windows - storm window condensation
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Paul2323
01-02-02, 01:28 PM
In the storm windows in our bedroom, there is frozen condensation building at the bottom on the window.
Its only my storm window, so there is no seal. The humidity in my room is around 35% which isn't that high. I'm wondering why we might be getting this in the storm window only.
Its only my storm window, so there is no seal. The humidity in my room is around 35% which isn't that high. I'm wondering why we might be getting this in the storm window only.
resercon
01-03-02, 02:52 AM
When you have a storm window and a primary window, you can always tell which window is air leaking or not tight. It is always the opposite window that does not have condensation on it. It takes heat to create moisture and a cool surface for it to condense upon. In other words, warm air is leaking around the primary window and condensing on the cooler surface of the storm window. Let's say it was reversed. Then cold air would be getting passed the storm window, making the primary window cold, causing the warm air in the home to condense on the primary window.
Some may argue that it's high humidity in your home that causes condensation, which is true. However, it is not true if it is confined to a specific area like a window or storm window. If high humidity was causing the condensation you would find it in other areas of the home. Especially the commode and other cool surfaces like door knobs and faucets. Excessive humidity in a home is not selective and will condense any where it can.
The solution to the condensation problem with your storm window is to make the primary window tight or close better. The most obvious place to look is the seat (sill) where the window closes. There might be debris there that pohibits the window from closing tightly. The latch, make sure that it makes the window tight. Sometimes these latches wear down and they no longer work properly. If so, change the latch. Check the glazing, make sure there isn't any cracks in the glass and the putty holding the glass in is good. If it's wood shrinkage due to the cold weather, there are a variety of window weather-stripping or seal the window with plastic kits you could buy.
Some may argue that it's high humidity in your home that causes condensation, which is true. However, it is not true if it is confined to a specific area like a window or storm window. If high humidity was causing the condensation you would find it in other areas of the home. Especially the commode and other cool surfaces like door knobs and faucets. Excessive humidity in a home is not selective and will condense any where it can.
The solution to the condensation problem with your storm window is to make the primary window tight or close better. The most obvious place to look is the seat (sill) where the window closes. There might be debris there that pohibits the window from closing tightly. The latch, make sure that it makes the window tight. Sometimes these latches wear down and they no longer work properly. If so, change the latch. Check the glazing, make sure there isn't any cracks in the glass and the putty holding the glass in is good. If it's wood shrinkage due to the cold weather, there are a variety of window weather-stripping or seal the window with plastic kits you could buy.