How to Stop Condensation on Aluminium Windows

08th January 2024

Condensation, that unwelcome moisture running down your windows, isn't just an eyesore -- it can damage your window frames and create unhealthy indoor conditions, leading to damp and mould.

Although aluminium windows are generally good at keeping condensation at bay due to their great thermal performance and non-porous materials, they (like all windows) aren't completely immune to it. Luckily, there are plenty of solutions to this common problem, and by making a few adjustments to your daily routine and home environment, you can get rid of those droplets and keep your windows crystal clear.

At Alimax, we want you to have a clean, dry, and comfy home all year long. To help you out, we've outlined the four main ways you can prevent condensation on your windows below.

1. Identify and Address the Cause

Before you can prevent condensation, you need to figure out where it's coming from. Some causes like temperature changes and insulation are harder to deal with, but there are simpler solutions for others:

• Showers release a lot of steam when turned on, and that steam quickly rises and sticks to windows. Although avoiding it entirely is a challenge, you can minimise the issue with proper ventilation. Turn on the exhaust fan to disperse water vapour before it has a chance to condense and keep a window open during and after your shower for at least 30 minutes.
• Boiling pots and sizzling pans can release a surprising amount of steam. Combat this in the kitchen by using the extractor fan while cooking and keeping the windows open for better airflow.
• Drying laundry indoors adds moisture to the air as vapour rises from the clothes and collects on windows. To reduce this, consider alternatives like using a tumble dryer or drying clothes outdoors whenever possible.

2. Ventilate Your Space

Even if you're not doing any of the moisture-releasing activities mentioned above, it's a good idea to open your windows for a few minutes several times a day. This helps fresh air circulate and replaces any damp air. Trickle vents in windows can also provide ongoing background ventilation, which is especially useful in winter when it's too cold to leave the windows open for long.

3. Invest in a Dehumidifier

If natural ventilation and extractor fans aren't doing the job, you might want to think about investing in a mechanical dehumidifier. These devices work by pulling in damp air, running it over cooling coils to turn the moisture into water, and then collecting the water in a reservoir or draining it away. The dried-out air is then released back into the room. Using a dehumidifier in conjunction with other ventilation methods is ideal for rooms with especially high levels of condensation.

4. Upgrade Your Windows

If you've tried the tips above and still find yourself struggling with condensation, it might be time to upgrade your windows. This is especially true if you have single-framed windows (as they don't provide as much insulation as double glazing), or if your frames are damaged in any way (as moisture can seep through the cracks).

In such cases, it's worth looking into aluminium double-glazed windows with thermal breaks. These windows have a layer of insulating material sandwiched between the panes, reducing heat transfer and minimising condensation for year-round dryness.

Banish Condensation With Alimax's Premium-Quality Aluminium Windows

At Alimax, we take pride in being Dorset and Hampshire's go-to supplier of high-quality, thermally efficient aluminium windows for both trade and residential customers. Drawing on our extensive experience, we bring you:

• A-rated energy performance featuring market-leading U-values
• Tailor-made frames designed to seamlessly complement your property
• State-of-the-art weatherproofing and security features to keep your home secure
• Fully assembled windows and doors, available in sizes up to 7 x 3 metres
• Quick lead times starting from just 10 days.

When you're in search of eye-catching, condensation-busting aluminium windows, you can trust us to deliver the quality you're looking for. Get a quote online, give us a ring on 01425 205465, or visit our Fordingbridge showroom to start your journey today!