When you see moisture on your windows, it isn’t necessarily a sign that something is wrong. While interior condensation can sometimes result from a failing windowpane seal, most often, it’s simply a result of humidity in the air. The water you see is condensation from the warm air meeting the cooler glass, like when a cold beverage sweats on a hot summer day.

In fact, condensation may be more noticeable on high-quality windows since they are so energy efficient, indicating that your windows have good tight seals. The things that make homes more energy efficient—weather stripping, high-quality insulation, vapor barriers, and windows and patio doors that reduce air leakage—also lock moisture inside your house.

Moisture is a part of everyday life. Anytime someone takes a shower or cooks, it increases indoor humidity. In British Columbia, where the fall and winters are especially wet and cold, it’s important to keep indoor humidity only as high as you need it. When you see interior window condensation, it’s a sign to lower the humidity.

A few quick and easy ways to do this include:

1. Opening the blinds and drapes to let moisture-laden air escape.
2. Raising the air temperature in your home (turning the heat on will decrease relative humidity).
3. Turning on ceiling fans to improve air circulation.
4. Running exhaust fans in the kitchen while cooking and in the bathroom while showering or bathing. Leave the fan running for 15 minutes after you’ve finished to clear out lingering moisture.

It’s essential to manage humidity inside your home for its overall health, not just to manage condensation. Excess interior moisture can lead to swelling wood, mold or mildew, musty odours, discoloration, and cracking or blistering paint. Remember that wiping condensation off windows, especially wood or vinyl, is essential. Prolonged condensation can lead to mold, rot, or leaky seals. Use a towel, paper towel, microfiber cloth, or squeegee to wipe away excess moisture.

Want to know more? Take a look at this short video on understanding condensation.

Are you considering upgrading some of your older windows with new, energy-efficient ones? Give us a call or fill out our contact form to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. We offer window and door replacement services in the Greater Vancouver Area, the Fraser Valley, Victoria, Nanaimo, Campbell River, and the Okanagan.

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1. Durability

One of the most standout attributes of Fibrex is its remarkable durability. This unique composite material is twice as strong as vinyl, meaning your windows can withstand harsh weather and the test of time. All of our replacement windows are equipped with Fibrex frames, so no matter your choice, you’re investing in products that will serve you well for years to come.

2. Energy Efficiency

Who doesn’t love the sound of lower utility bills? Thanks to the first-rate insulation provided by Fibrex, you will see a noticeable decrease in energy costs. This material’s excellent thermal insulation means your home stays warmer in winter and cooler in summer without overworking your heating and cooling systems.

3. Aesthetics

Fibrex isn’t just about functionality; it’s also about style. Available in a range of colours and designs, Fibrex windows can complement any home aesthetic, from modern and minimal to classic and traditional. Whether you’re renovating living spaces or working on a new construction project, Fibrex windows will add charm to your home.

4. Low Maintenance

Replacement windows equipped with Fibrex also require minimal maintenance. Unlike wood that needs repainting or metal that can rust, this alternative framing material remains strong and beautiful throughout the seasons, without requiring too much of your time and effort for maintenance. 

5. Environmentally Friendly

In this day and age, making environmentally conscious choices is more important than ever. You’ll be glad to know that Fibrex is made from a blend of reclaimed wood and thermoplastic polymer. Not only that, but you can also rest easily knowing that these windows are long-lasting, therefore reducing waste.

Give us a call or fill out our contact form to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. We offer window and door replacement services in the Greater Vancouver Area, the Fraser Valley, Victoria, Nanaimo, Campbell River, and the Okanagan. 

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Think about a cold beverage on a hot day. Water forms on the outside of the glass when its cool surface meets the warm, humid air. This causes water to condense on the surface and run down. The same as on a window. While it may seem counter-intuitive, the appearance of condensation on the outside or inside of your window is actually a good thing. Condensation will appear on even the best-performing windows—in fact, it might be more noticeable on high quality windows since they are more energy-efficient.

Condensation can actually be a sign that your home is well sealed. The very things that make homes more energy efficient—windows and patio doors that reduce air leakage, weather-stripping, high-quality insulation, vapor barriers—also lock moisture inside your house. Moisture is a natural part of life. Every time someone in your household takes a shower or cooks, moisture is released into the air, increasing indoor humidity.

In British Columbia, where fall and winter tends to be cold and wet, it’s important to try and minimize indoor humidity. Some ways to do this include:

1. Opening the blinds and drapes to let out moisture-laden air.
2. Raising the air temperature in your home to decrease relative humidity.
3. Turning on ceiling fans for more air circulation.
4. Running exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom and leaving them running for 15 minutes or longer to clear out lingering moisture.
5. Ensuring proper ventilation of appliances, like dryers, to the outside.

For more information on relative humidity and condensation in your home, take a look at this video:

Thinking of replacing some of your older windows with new energy-efficient ones? Get the best ENERGY-STAR® replacement windows to ensure maximum efficiency and curb appeal with Renewal by Andersen of British Columbia. We can help you find the perfect windows for your home.

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Here are six things you can do to prepare your home for fall:

1. Check your roof and gutters

It’s a good idea to look over your roof and gutters now before winter sets in. Look for any shingles that are bent, cracked or missing, and replace them. Check for leaks in these areas as well as around chimneys and skylights. While you’re up there, clear the leaves and debris from your gutters while the weather is still good.

2. Clear your yard

To protect your backyard furniture from the cold, clean and cover it and store in a dry place. Move grills, barbeques and other outdoor tools such as lawnmowers into a shed or garage. Disconnect and drain your outside hose while you’re at it.

3. Get your HVAC serviced

This time of year, it’s a good idea to get your heating and air-conditioning system inspected and serviced. You don’t want to be stuck with a dirty filter that will let allergens into the air around your home during the cooler months. If you have ceiling fans, reverse direction to a clockwise motion to create an updraft to move warm air down.

4. Clean and weatherproof outside surfaces

Summer’s end is the last chance to rent a power washer you’ll need to clean your patio, driveway, deck and home exterior. You should also renew weatherproofing on decks, fences, and other exterior structures as well as insulate any pipes in unheated locations.

5. Check your home’s exterior for cracks

Take care of the exterior of your house before the fall rains, winter snows, and spring melt have their way. Openings in the structure can let water in where it will freeze, resulting in cracks and mold. Caulk around the areas where masonry meets siding and where pipes or wires enter the house before it gets too cold.

6. Check window and door seals

To save money on heating and cooling costs, check your windows and doors for drafts. Apply weather stripping or caulk around the frames to cut down on drafts. Make sure the seal between your garage door and the ground is tight too, to prevent drafts and small animals from entering. While you’re at it, clean windows of summer grime before cold weather sets in.

Renewal by Andersen offers a wide range of window and patio doors that can improve the look, feel, and functionality of your home. Whether you’re looking for new windows to make your home comfortable and energy-efficient or want an upgrade that will increase the value of your property, Renewal by Andersen provides premier products and installation services.

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