Waking up on a cold winter morning and seeing frost on the inside of your windows isn’t just a sign of the season, it’s actually a sign that something is amiss. That’s right, that charming frost on your windows may not be so charming after all.
But don’t panic! It just means your windows need some attention, or possibly replacement.
Before we get into that, let’s talk about why some windows get frosty and why it could be a problem.
When it’s cold outside and there is moisture in the air inside your home, the moisture is drawn to the windows, forming frost. In Atlanta, we’re no stranger to humidity, so it’s no surprise that frosty windows are an issue.
Frost is most common on single-pane windows. Single-pane windows have just one pane of glass, which means it lacks insulation. These windows were very common up until recent years so if your home is older than 15-20 years old, you likely have this type of window. But even if you have double-pane windows, you may still see frost if the seals on your windows are broken.
As we mentioned, window frost may look charming, but it’s actually not good for your home.
First, it’s a sign that your windows are no longer energy-efficient. When your windows are energy-efficient, exterior temperatures don’t impact your windows or the temperatures inside of your home. Ice or frost on windows is a sure sign that cold air is getting in, and warm air is escaping.
Second, when the frost melts, the water drips onto your window sills and walls. In addition to damaging your walls or window sills over time, this water can lead to mold or mildew around your windows. Mold and mildew are dangerous and can be extremely expensive and time-consuming to get rid of. (And in Atlanta, any mold that started in the winter will flourish in our hot, humid summers.)
In severe circumstances, these extreme temperature changes can actually damage your windows by causing shrinkage or warping. This can lead to gaps around your window frame, which is another way cold air seeps in and warm air escapes.
With all that in mind, let’s talk about how to prevent frost on the inside of your windows.
The most effective way to prevent frost on your windows is to replace them altogether. With professionally-installed replacement windows, you can be sure there are no gaps or areas where air can escape. In addition, the layer of insulation offered by double-pane windows keeps your home more comfortable and prevents window frost.
While you wait for your replacement windows to be installed, here are a few steps you can take to prevent ice from forming on your windows:
At Window World, we offer a variety of energy-efficient window styles to match your home’s design and your needs. At your free consultation, our window experts will help you find the best windows for your home. Get started by requesting your consultation today!