Monday, July 27, 2009

Controlling Condensation & Humidity

Many homeowners who visit The Window Man worry about excess humidity and even condensation--particular problems in the DC metro area. Excess humidity can damage wallpaper and furnishings and even increase the risk of unhealthy molds developing in your home’s interior. Take the following simple steps to decrease the humidity in your home.

1. The first step to controlling condensation and humidity is to replace your old windows with newer windows that have insulated glass.

2. Next, make sure that the louvers in your attic or basement crawlspaces are open and that they are large enough to provide proper circulation.

3. Third, run any ventilating fans that you have in your home for much longer than you usually do. (Kitchen fans in particular should run for longer than you think!)

4. Fourth, turn off the furnace humidifier and or any other humidifier you have in your home. (This seems like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many people overlook this simple step.)

5. Fifth, make sure your fireplace damper is open so moisture can easily escape.

6. Sixth, consider buying a dehumidifier. If you don't have a dehumidifier and don’t wat to purchase one, try to air out the home for a few minutes every day if feasible.

If you'd like to talk to a representative from The Window Man about which windows and doors are best for moisture and condensation-prone homes, stop by one of our three Northern Virginia showrooms today.

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