How do you stop condensation on windows in a Grade 2 listed building?

Condensation is a common issue in UK homes. Here in the South West, a damper-than-average climate makes us particularly susceptible. Older properties can face particular challenges when it comes to condensation, with a range of strategies required to tackle the problem. If an older property is Grade II listed, this can create added complexity.

What is condensation, how does it occur, and what strategies can period property owners in South Devon and beyond use to address the problem?

What is condensation?

To combat condensation you need to understand what it is and how it develops. It occurs when warm, moist air comes into contact with cold surfaces such as windows. This can be a problem during the colder months when indoor humidity levels increase. As the outdoor temperature drops, the moisture in the air condenses into water droplets when it hits the cooler glass surface. 

Grade II and other heritage properties can be particularly difficult to heat and keep warm, meaning there can be a greater temperature difference between the indoor air and surfaces such as walls and windows. 

How do you tackle condensation?

Addressing condensation requires removing some of the humidity from the internal air, while raising the temperature of surfaces, such as windows and walls. In Grade II listed buildings, the methods chosen need to respect the building’s character. 

Some of the main methods for combatting condensation include:

• Ventilation

One of the most effective ways to reduce condensation is by improving ventilation. This might include installing trickle vents in windows that allow a small, constant flow of fresh air. For buildings with sash windows, sash window ventilators can be fitted into sash windows without compromising the overall appearance. Obviously, it’s also possible to improve ventilation by opening windows, which while practical, may not always be desirable during the coldest months.

• Extractor Fans

Rooms that are particularly prone to humid air such as kitchens and bathrooms should be fitted with extractor fans. Ideally, these should be humidity-sensitive and automatically switch on when moisture levels rise.

• Heating

Maintaining a low level of background heating, even when the property is unoccupied, keeps surfaces warmer and reduces the temperature difference between the air and windows. Improving a home’s insulation can also raise the overall ambient temperature in the property.

• Dehumidifiers

Portable dehumidifiers can extract significant amounts of moisture from the air. Choose a model that is powerful enough to dehumidify the house. By taking the moisture out of the air, dehumidifiers can make it easier and more cost-effective to heat your home.

• General Maintenance

Ensuring gutters and roofs are free from leaks and blockages, and keeping windows in good repair helps to prevent drafts and moisture ingress.

Land Vac Glass

Land Vac is the next generation of tempered vacuum-insulated glass and provides superb thermal insulation and soundproofing for Grade II buildings and other properties. Land vac glass offers the significant advantage of preventing condensation from forming on the glass surface. This is achieved through the design of a vacuum-sealed space between the panes, which effectively blocks moisture from entering and causing fogging or water droplets. This feature ensures that the glass remains clear and free from any signs of condensation, even in environments with high levels of humidity. 

Additionally, the incorporation of warm edge spacer bars in double glazed units serves to further enhance the glass’s performance. These spacer bars minimize heat loss and create a barrier that improves overall energy efficiency by reducing the cold bridge between the glass panes.

Window replacement for Grade II listed buildings from Joinery Solutions

Replacement windows in your Grade II listed property can significantly improve your home’s energy efficiency and insulation. 

At Joinery Solutions SW, we have extensive experience on Grade II listed properties in Exeter, Kingsbridge, Newton Abbot, Plymouth, and across Devon and the South West. Whether you require work on sash or casement windows, you can be sure that our team has the skills and knowledge to uphold the beauty of your historic building. Contact us to find out more.