Tip of the Month

The October Tip of the Month is provided to you by Pella Windows & Doors: Moisture is Present in All Homes Humidity & Condensation * Humidity is a measure of the amount of water vapor in the air. * Condensation is water that forms when warm, moist air hits a cooler surface. In homes, it might occur on surfaces such as windows, bathroom walls and cold-water pipes. * When interior humidity levels are too high relative to cooler outdoor temperatures, condensation can form on the coldest surface in the room - often the glass in a window or door. * While windows and doors do not cause condensation, they may be one of the first places it shows up. Tips for winter-time moisture management: * Closely monitor the furnace humidifier and any other humidifying devices. * Be sure louvers and vents for the attic, basement and/or crawl space are open, adequately sized and cross-ventilated. * Run exhaust fans for kitchen, bathroom and laundry rooms for longer periods. * Make sure exhaust fans vent directly outside, not into attics or crawl spaces. * Be sure chimneys are free and clear so moisture in combustion gases can escape. * Make sure your furnace is in proper working order and is serviced regularly. * Open a door or window for several minutes each day to refresh the inside air. * Open window coverings - such as blinds, shades, drapes, and curtains - during daylight hours to increase airflow over the glass.