Depending on the climate you live in, or the season, temperature changes can result in foggy windows.
People who live in the UK especially have to deal with fogged-up windows due to the change in weather.
Modern aluminium windows are light years ahead as they are designed to resist the build-up of fog. Despite this, there are measures you can take to further help avoid this from happening.
Let’s dive into this article to discuss how to prevent condensation on aluminium frames.
How Does Condensation Form?
Two key factors for condensation to form are hot air and colder surfaces.
Condensation forms when excess moisture is in the air, which then shows up as condensation on the glass. Usually, the humid air rests on a cold surface where the water vapour collects.
During winter, cold window frames are affected by the warm air inside the room.
This can occur naturally on the outside of your window, or it can be as a result of the change in the air temperature in the home. If it is too hot on the inside and there is no ventilation, condensation will form.
The colder the surface area, the foggier your windows will be.
Are Aluminium Window Frames Prone To The Effects Of Condensation?
Aluminium windows are made with a U-value. The U-value refers to the insulating properties that these window frames have. If the U-value is higher, the aluminium windows cannot insulate properly, and condensation occurs.
The thermal break (or a lack thereof) between the exterior and interior of the aluminium window frame can result in a temperature drop. This causes a condensation problem.
Older windows become cold easily as there is no or little insulating barrier to reduce condensation.
However, modern aluminium windows are not prone to the effects of condensation as these frames are properly insulated to keep heat in.
What Problems Does Condensation Cause?
Window sweating is when condensation builds up on the window. If you have an air leak, the window sweat can cause mould in the window frame and even in the walls around your windows.
This could lead to serious health problems such as asthma and other allergies that can become chronic illnesses over time. The negative effects caused by window sweating can also damage the window seals. This allows heat to escape and condensation to become a natural occurrence.
Aluminium window frames’ condensation can be curbed by using energy-efficient windows. It is important to also check your existing windows for any cracks or leaks.
What Happens When Condensation Gets Between the Glass Panes?
Since glass is one of the coldest materials in your home, it attracts warm air. The temperature, combined with the humidity level, leads to condensation. The point at which condensation develops is known as the dew point.
Check how to measure glass for aluminium windows to make sure you have the right fit for large panes. An ill-fitting window leaves space which results in cold surfaces where condensation forms.
If you notice the moisture inside the windows, it indicates that the surface temperature is cooler than usual, and you might need to replace your window panes.
Tips on Preventing Condensation on Aluminium Windows
To eliminate condensation, you might want to try to replace your old aluminium windows. Why not view our range on our website?
Here are some other tips on how to prevent condensation on aluminium window frames:
Use a window vacuum
A window vacuum is more straightforward than a towel to wipe up all the moisture off the windows. Since window vacuums are usually used to remove soap and water, they can also help remove condensation.
The water vapour will collect within the vacuum. This makes it easier as you can control where the moisture collects.
This is effective in wiping up and clearing the windows of condensation. However, it doesn’t solve the problem long-term if you need new windows.
Buy a dehumidifier
A dehumidifier is ideal for preventing condensation on aluminium windows. Sucking up all the moisture in the air makes it harder for condensation to form, even if it falls on colder surfaces.
They also help in eliminating mould, which is certainly not something you want growing on your windows!
A dehumidifier can also heat the room it is in, so you can save on your heating bills too!
Trap humidity from the source
Certain areas within the home, such as the bathroom and kitchen, produce moisture that leads to fogged-up windows.
To prevent condensation from building up throughout the house, have the door closed when taking a shower or bath. Immediately when you are finished, you can open a window to help extract the moisture from the room.
Installing bathroom vents is another way to prevent condensation. If you have an extractor fan, you can use that in the kitchen when cooking on cool surfaces, reducing condensation. Keep the fan on for 10-15 minutes to remove all condensation.
Keep track of the humidity level in your home
Using a hygrometer can help you track the relative humidity within your home. This way, if you notice humidity levels rising, you can open a window and allow fresh air to flow through your home to reduce humidity.
Small amounts of droplets on your window can also be an indication that you might need to open a window if it’s not raining outside.
Use a tumble dryer to dry wet clothes
Another great way to prevent condensation of aluminium window frames is by using a tumble dryer rather than hanging your clothes on a clothes horse.
A tumble dryer is used to dry wet clothes by blowing hot air into one side of the drum while the dryer spins the clothes extracting the moisture in the form of wet steam at the same time.
The condensation collects inside the dryer in a tank/tray and can later be cleaned out when you are done drying your clothes.
Install a window vent
This can be installed underneath or on top of windows and can be used to cool the area with fresh air. The vent will provide a space for moist air to escape.
Worried About Condensation Outside Windows?
Aluminium window frames are designed to keep the heat within the house.
Condensation on aluminium window panes shows no air leak from the inside of the window. This is considered a good thing, as the window seals are working properly. As the temperature warms on the outside, the fog will clear up, and the window will be clear enough to see through.
You can also wipe down or rinse the window with lukewarm water to speed up the process. Ensure that the water is not hot, as it can cause a crack in the glass.
You can find more tips on these windows on our blog.
FAQs
How to prevent condensation on aluminium window frames?
Opening windows to let in cooler temperatures can help prevent the windows from fogging up.
What home remedies can I use to remove fog from windows?
Mix 2 cups of vinegar and 2 cups of water to make a solution that can be used to wipe down the windows and remove fog.
A homemade remedy is much cheaper than purchasing a dehumidifier; this solution can be pre-mixed to ensure that it is ready when needed.
Why is there condensation on my window?
Hot air mixing with cold surfaces is the reason for the fog on your windows.
So which aluminium windows won’t cause condensation?
It is important to install aluminium windows with double glazing. These are fitted with thermal breaks, which trap heat inside and insulate the house. This reduces condensation on cooler surfaces.
Does condensation create mould?
A build-up of condensation can create mould as the window panes and walls around the window are constantly damp.
It is important to check for any leaks or broken windows to ensure no mould is growing inside your home, and to clean mould on your windows if you do find it.
Do aluminium window frames cause condensation?
Modern aluminium windows do not cause condensation as they are insulated to prevent heat from entering the window frames.
If you experience any condensation on aluminium window frames, you need to check the window frames for any faults.
