Understanding when moisture on your windows is considered normal or a seal failure.
Moisture on windows is typically the result of condensation, which occurs when warm, humid air inside the home meets the cooler surface of the window glass. This is especially common during colder months when the temperature difference between the interior and exterior is more pronounced. The excess humidity in the home, often from cooking, showering, accumulates and settles on the coldest surfaces, like windows. While a small amount of condensation on the interior can be normal, persistent moisture can indicate poor ventilation or high indoor humidity levels. In contrast, if moisture appears between the panes of a double or triple-pane window, it usually means the seal has failed, allowing insulating gas to escape and moisture to enter, which is a warranty issue rather than a maintenance one.
Warranty Expectations
Condensation & Humidity
What’s Covered: Condensation between windowpanes due to a seal failure within the first year after settlement. Locate Your Order Number - Ply Gem]
What to Expect: Condensation on the interior window glass is typically caused by indoor humidity levels, not a window defect. However, moisture between glass panes indicates a broken seal and should not occur. [Understanding My Homes Humidifier]
How We’ll Help: We’ll replace windows with seal failures that cause condensation between the panes within the first year. [Van Metre Life]
How You Can Help: Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens to reduce indoor humidity. Keep blinds slightly open to allow air circulation around windows.
Condensation on Interior Surfaces
What’s Covered: Condensation is considered a natural result of temperature and humidity differences and is not covered under warranty.
What to Expect: Surfaces like windows, doors, pipes, and even HVAC ducts may collect condensation during times of high indoor humidity or extreme outdoor temperatures. This is normal and not a sign of a product or installation defect. [Understanding My HVAC]
How We’ll Help: Because this is a result of environmental conditions rather than workmanship or material failure, no corrective action is required. [Van Metre Life]
How You Can Help: Use bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans regularly, keep your home’s humidity levels between 30–50%, and allow for air circulation by opening blinds and moving furniture away from vents and exterior walls. [Understanding My Homes Humidifier]