Condensation on Windows: What Each Type Means

Where the moisture is tells you whether you have a ventilation issue or a glazing failure.

Condensation on windows is diagnosed by location. Inside, outside and in between are three completely different situations with three different responses — and only one of them is a fault with the window.

Inside the glass: humidity and ventilation

Moisture from cooking, washing and drying clothes condenses on the coldest surface in the room, which is usually the glass. Better ventilation, extraction at source and background trickle ventilation are the fixes.

Warmer glass helps too, which is why upgrading old units reduces internal condensation even though the moisture source hasn't changed.

Outside the glass: a good sign

External dew on the outer pane on cold clear mornings means very little heat is escaping through the glass to warm it. It looks like a problem and is actually evidence of efficient glazing.

Between the panes: a failed unit

This is the only one that is a fault. The seal has failed and the sealed unit needs replacing — usually without changing the frame.

Have condensation between the panes?

Send a photo and we'll confirm whether it's a sealed unit replacement.

Frequently asked questions

Should I close my trickle vents to stop condensation?

No — closing them usually makes internal condensation worse by trapping humid air.

Do new windows stop condensation completely?

They reduce internal condensation because the glass is warmer, but ventilation habits still matter.

Can misted units be repaired?

Replacing the sealed unit is the reliable fix; see our guide on misted double glazing.

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