A cozy winter scene with a snow storm outside and a warm fire burning in a fireplace inside can be marred by the sight of drippy windows. It’s also a sign there are serious moisture issues inside the home.

Water or frost on your windows is condensation and is created when warm, moist air comes into contact with dry, cold air much like when two different weather systems collide except this is inside your house and not outside.

Is the problem my windows?
It may seem like the problem is your windows because that’s where the water rests and makes a watery mess. Condensation isn’t created because your windows are cold instead it’s the coldest place in your house so the phenomena of two air systems smashing together is more noticeable.

So what causes condensation?
It’s the moisture in the air that causes condensation and it’s more noticeable on your windows because newly constructed houses are more sealed and less drafty than older homes.

New construction methods lock cold air outside and make houses warmer and cozier. In particular newer windows and weather stripping are effective at making a home airtight. While having an air efficient home is appealing, it’s also got its problems if you have a water leak.