HOME HEALTH: Condensation in Your Home

As we near the end of Winter (hopefully!) many areas of the nation are entering their rainiest season. What does this mean for the health of your home?

  "We often get calls from homeowners who are concerned that their windows are 'sweating' or leaking either inside or outside the home because they see moisture on the glass," says Gary Pember, vice president of marketing at Simonton Windows. "In reality, that's simply not the case. While condensation may collect on the interior or exterior of energy-efficient windows, the units are really doing their job by helping serve as a barrier in the home."It all comes down to moisture and condensation. Many homeowner’s first instinct is to check windows and doors for leaks. Slightly askew installation can mean water accumulation, which will eventually turn to mold and rot.

Pember points out that windows do not cause condensation --- they simply prevent the moisture in the home from escaping to the outside. "If the inside glass surface on double- or triple-glazed windows show excessive moisture, you can be reasonably sure that the moisture is also collecting on your walls and ceilings," says Pember. "This means you should take steps to reduce the humidity level in your home by using exhaust fans and dehumidifiers."

Here are some expert tips to help reduce moisture -- and it’s negative effects -- in your home.

1. Keep Bathrooms Ventilated. Between steamy showers, baths, and sometimes laundry this can be a very damp room in a very small space. Do your best to keep this area free of dampness. Keep windows open during mild months and be sure to use an exhaust fan and to properly vent your dryer.
2. Use Kitchen Exhaust Fans. Steam from your pots and pans can damage walls and cabinets. A great way to prevent damage is to install an over the stove fan.
3. Prevent Damp Basements. Be sure that your existing sump pump is in good working order so that you don’t end up with a flood in your basement. That’s the worst kind of moisture!
4. Inspecting Older Homes. Older homes that haven’t been properly maintained can be a breeding ground for mold. Many molds are harmful to your health. Be sure to inspect your home or a prospective home for mold.
5. Vent your Attic. Attics can also harbor moisture, especially if roofs are leaky. Fix any roof leaks immediately as well as open up vents for air flow.
6. Windows. Check windows are fogging or moistures between panes. This isn’t normal. Be sure to check seals on those windows.  

Keeping the moisture at bay is just another important facet of homeownership. A beautiful and sound home is within reach to all homeowners who take time and care.  

Realtytimes.com Carla Hill February 23, 2012