Condensation is common in most homes, and whilst there are certain things we can do to reduce how much we get, it’s just one of those things we have to deal with, particularly in the winter months.
Condensation is likely to occur on your roof light as the warm air tends to rise and then condense as it comes into contact with the cool glass of a rooflight, resulting in condensation on the surface.
Stopping condensation on your roof lights takes a little perseverance on your part and a few steps to reduce the chances of it occurring.
Condensation on your roof light doesn’t typically mean that there is something wrong with how it has been installed; however, it’s always worth checking that it has been fitted correctly to rule out that possibility first.
Key takeaways
- Condensation forms when warm air meets a cold glass surface.
- Rooflights are prone to condensation because warm air naturally rises.
- Condensation is more common in winter because the temperature difference between inside and outside is greater.
- It’s normal for condensation to gather on the surface of the glass, but condensation between double-glazed panes may indicate damage or poor installation.
- Some condensation can suggest that windows or rooflights are well insulated, while too much condensation can lead to mould, property damage, and damage to furniture or clothing.
- Good ventilation is the best way to reduce condensation.
- Dehumidifiers can help remove excess moisture from the air.
- Extractor fans should be used when cooking, showering, or cleaning.
- You should keep windows and internal doors open and use window vents to help air circulate.
What causes condensation on roof lights and windows?
Condensation occurs mainly in the colder months because warm air comes into contact with a cold surface, such as glass windows. The warm air turns to liquid as it’s quickly cooled at the surface.
Condensation on your windows or rooflights is likely to occur during the winter months; however, if you notice condensation between the panes of double-glazed glass, it means they’ve been damaged over time or haven’t been installed correctly, so they’ll need to be replaced.
Why does condensation happen more often in winter?
Well, it’s quite simply because it’s colder outside, which means the surface of the glass is cooler, and the air in your home is warmer. This discrepancy between the two temperatures is what results in condensation forming more often.
Whilst condensation might leave you feeling concerned, it typically indicates that your windows are well insulated. If they weren’t, this means that the hot air is likely to be escaping through holes in the window, which means your house could be colder than it should be.
Why you want to reduce condensation
It’s important to note that if condensation continuously accumulates in certain areas of the home, it can lead to problems in the future.
Humid conditions often lead to mould if not properly treated, which, in serious cases, can cause health problems, structural damage to the home, and ruin items inside the home, like furniture or clothing.
How to stop condensation on roof lights
Ventilation is the best way for you to reduce the amount of condensation on your roof lights, so take these tips on board to help reduce and stop it from happening in your home.
Get a dehumidifier – Perfect for areas where air circulation is harder, a dehumidifier is great for removing excess moisture from the air. This helps to reduce the amount of condensation you’re likely to get on your roof lights.
Install extractor fans and use them – Extractor fans are great when you’re cooking, showering and cleaning so have them installed in those areas and make it a habit to always have them on when you’re doing these tasks.
Open your windows – Let air circulate in your home, and try to keep them open, even in the winter months, to help reduce condensation.
Keep doors open – As well as opening windows to let the air circulate, you’ll also want to keep doors inside the home open to let the air circulate naturally around the house.
Try to reduce drying clothes inside – Sometimes it can’t be avoided, and during the winter months, you need to hang clothes on airers to dry. But moisture from the clothing will only evaporate into the air, causing condensation, so try to avoid it where possible. You could always use a dehumidifier next to drying clothes to help suck the moisture in there.
Use window vents – Some windows come with sliding vents that let moisture escape when open. If you have them, ensure they’re open, as this will significantly affect condensation.
Final thoughts…
Whilst it’s going to take a lot of practice and individual tasks to stop condensation on roof lights, it’s certainly possible with our handy tips above.
Hopefully, you’ll be able to keep your glass clear at all times, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty from up above.