Why Are My New Energy-Efficient Windows Wet?

Energy-efficient windows are very good at keeping outside air out and indoor air inside the home. These windows help homes maintain comfortable indoor air temperature, which helps to lower cooling bills during summer and heating bills during winter.

Despite their ability to prevent outdoor air from leaking inside the home, however, some homeowners might wonder why most windows tend to have water droplets forming on them when it’s winter, or when it’s hot outside and the air conditioning is set to high. This happens especially when windows are new.

Now you might ask, why is that so? And where is the water coming from? Trusted window and roofing contractors from Exterior Pros gives an answer.

Why Is Water Forming on Your New Windows?

The water you see on your windows when it’s cold outside is called condensation. This normally happens when outdoor temperatures are very low, indoor temperatures are higher, and the humidity level inside the home is high. In other words, it’s cold outside and your rooms are warmer and more humid.

Where Does the Water Come From?

According to window and roofing replacement experts, condensation forms when there’s enough water vapor in the atmosphere. Notice how a glass tends to get all moist on the outside when it’s filled with cold water? That’s how condensation works: the cold water cools the air around the glass. When the cold air is unable to hold the amount of moisture in the air, water droplets form.

Those who want to prevent condensation from forming will need to lower indoor humidity levels as outdoor temperatures decrease.

Why Didn’t This Appear on My Old Windows?

Older, less energy-efficient windows allowed warm indoor air to leak and reach the outside glass pane. The warm air that leaked warmed the exterior glass and caused the moisture on it to dissipate, preventing condensation from occurring.

Newer, energy-efficient windows, on the other hand, prevent warm air from leaking out and dissipating the moisture on the exterior glass. This is not a cause for concern, though – the moisture on the glass will dissipate once outside temperatures start to rise.

Condensation doesn’t just form on your windows. They can also form on other exterior surfaces such as siding, and will disappear when outdoor temperatures rise. While condensation might not be a cause for concern, it will always be best to seek siding replacement when your siding is damaged and unable to protect your home.

If you are in need of some professional help for window, siding, and roof replacement, call the experts at Exterior Pros. We are a locally owned and operated home improvement company serving clients in Waukesha, WI , and surrounding areas. Call us at (262) 465-3530 or fill out our contact form for a free quote.