Prevent Mold from Growing Around Your Windows this Winter

You might have noticed that mold and mildew can have a tendency to grow along your windows, the windowsills, the frames, and some other surfaces in your house, especially during the winter. During the summer, mold and mildew may not be as prevalent because we have a tendency to keep those windows and doors open, which allows air to move through the house, which makes it easier for surfaces to remain dry.

During the winter, those same windows and doors are generally closed most of the time. If there’s any excessive moisture in the house, it’s going to lead to increased risk of mold and mildew forming.

Around the windows, if any precipitation falls or collects on the window, or as the temperature drops and the cold air outside presses against the glass, drawing moisture to it on the inside, you can have a very serious problem on your hands.

The condensation forms as a result of this dramatic temperature variance (between the exterior and interior) and, depending on the quality of windows and how humid it is inside your house, you can end up with water that begins dripping down the glass, collecting on the window frame and windowsill, and, if not taken care of properly, can lead to rot, mold, and mildew.

If you’re planning to apply plastic sheeting around your windows as an extra barrier to keep your house warmer this winter, make sure those windows, the frames, and sills are completely dry before you apply the plastic.

If you have condensation problems, make sure you sponge up and wipe down the windows, frames, and sills every single morning and possibly in the evening.

If you’re having this type of problem, replacement windows is a pretty good idea. Not only will you improve energy efficiency, but you’ll also reduce the risk of that condensation building up on the glass. It happens because the barrier between the outside air and the interior of your house is minimal, the seal between the double glazed glass has broken down, and the cold air more easily presses through and competes with the warmth on the other side of the glass, thus drawing the moisture to it.