How to stop condensation in your conservatory

Why does my conservatory get condensation?

First thing’s first; why does it happen?

A properly constructed conservatory will be air and water tight. This is important as it stops warm air from escaping, prevents cold air from getting in, and keeps the rain from leaking into the inside of your home. It’s common sense.

If you want to be safe from draughts and keep your energy bills low, then you need an insulated structure — no question about it! 

Still, this can have a knock-on effect…

Though insulation is crucial for a conservatory, so is ventilation. If you have poor ventilation in your conservatory, moisture can build up in the air as water vapour. This water vapour then turns into water droplets/condensation as the air hits a cold surface, aka your winter windows. And as complete insulation can sometimes affect ventilation, even well-built conservatories are likely to suffer from interior condensation.

What kind of glass reduces condensation?

If you’re wondering whether your window panes can make a difference to the level of condensation in your conservatory, the answer is yes!

If you have single-pane windows in your conservatory, it’s time to get rid. Double glazing will make a world of difference to your condensation problem and your structure’s energy efficiency.

A-rated double glazed windows will add an extra barrier between the inside and outside of your home. So, instead of water vapour in the air hitting your cold single glazed window to form condensation, it will hit the warmer internal pane of your double glazing. 

You might still notice patches of condensation now and then, but you shouldn’t see nearly as much as before.

Do you get condensation on polycarbonate roofs?

If you have an old conservatory roof, then it’s almost certainly contributing to your condensation problem. 

Replace your conservatory roof and you should notice a huge difference. Just make sure you opt for a high-quality material, such as polycarbonate, modern glass or tile. 

Polycarbonate offers greater insulation than old glass roofs due to its ‘hygroscopic’ properties which allow it to absorb moisture from the air. It’s also cost-effective and easy to install, making it a no-brainer for many homeowners.

If you’d like to chat further about the benefits of polycarbonate or learn about your other conservatory roof options, we’re just a phone call away.

Do dehumidifiers work in conservatories?

While you’re contemplating your replacement roof and upgrade options, we recommend getting a dehumidifier. These devices draw excess moisture from the air and are often used in homes struggling with their moisture levels.

If water is in your dehumidifier, it can only mean one thing — it’s not on your panes. Sure, a dehumidifier will only provide you with a temporary fix, but it’s better than nothing!

A good device should be affordable but expect to pay a little extra for a more effective product. If you have damp issues, a dehumidifier is almost always worth the investment. Further damage will only cause more problems and be expensive to sort out when you eventually get around to it.

And while we’re on the topic, take this as your reminder to do just that — soon! A dehumidifier won’t solve the structural problems with your conservatory (regardless of the claims on the box). The forward-thinking thing to do is to fix your conservatory now.

Other ways to reduce condensation in conservatories

So, you can invest in double glazing, replace your old conservatory roof, or use a dehumidifier (in the short term) to improve your condensation issues. But is there anything else you can do?

Yes!

As we’ve discussed, condensation results from there being too much moisture in the air. So, if you can reduce this — happy days! You’ll probably notice an improvement. Avoid drying your clothes in your conservatory and refrain from putting too many plants in there (as lovely as they look).

You can also improve ventilation by installing an extractor fan and opening your windows now and again. Opening the door between your conservatory and home will also help by allowing airflow. Looking to purchase something but don’t want to shell out on a dehumidifier? Consider getting some condensation catchers.

Of course, as with most things in life, the best solution is a permanent one. If your conservatory needs to be repaired or replaced, you know what you need to do. Tackle your condensation problems at the root and enjoy a trouble-free conservatory for years to come.

Launa conservatories

Are you noticing condensation, cold spots, or rattling windows in your conservatory? If the answer is yes, then consider getting a conservatory upgrade. At Launa, we can replace your conservatory roof or install double glazing. 

If you’d like to build a new conservatory from scratch, we can construct a bespoke conservatory to your exact specifications.

Want to discuss your ideas? Give us a call!. To check out our conservatory types and roof options, browse our brochure.