How can I tell if I have moisture buildup in my windows?
When windows start fogging up or showing noticeable condensation on the inside, it’s a sign that they no longer have a proper seal. This is particularly true if you see moisture pooling at the base of the window trim.
Continuous expansion and contraction from temperature changes can cause cracks in seals in double pane windows. Living in areas where it gets very cold in the winter or extremely hot in the summers can exacerbate this, especially if there’s outdoor humidity.
Another thing that can contribute to window condensation is a home with too much humidity. Questions to ask yourself here include:
- Do you have a crawl space? If it doesn’t have a moisture barrier it can allow excess humidity into the rest of the house.
- Does your kitchen have proper ventilation? Cooking can generate moisture from boiling water etc. that can lead to humidity challenges if not properly vented.
You can use a dehumidifier to help alleviate this frustration. Also, some homeowners report that making it a point to open the curtains and blinds for periods of time allows more air flow to the window glass. That extra air flow can (in some cases) improve humidity conditions.
What if I want to add a new window to a wall?
The first step for this type of project is to review your home’s blueprints/architectural drawings.
The main thing an experienced remodeling contractor needs to know is whether that given wall is load bearing, and to what degree. Also, what type of electrical or plumbing lines are inside that wall?
Any potential cutting done needs to take those things into account.
This will give you an idea of:
- Whether adding a window to that wall is even feasible
- What types of windows will work
- What sizes/dimensions will be possible
After confirming that the wall in question can even safely have a window installed, the next thing you’ll want to check into are the local building code requirements. Different regions have different permit requirements or regulations for sizing, etc.
In many cases your city building inspector will require framing plans that spell out how you will be installing the window, which your remodeling contractor can help you develop or obtain.
(That’s part of why that previous step makes sense first.)
There’s a lot to a project like this even though it seems relatively simple in concept. Much as we don’t want to discourage people from getting into their own projects and making their homes their own, it’s worth a word of caution.
Here are some additional resources you can check out in preparation for your window project: