Skip to Main Content

How to Protect Blinds from Condensation

We know a little something about winter here in Saint Michael, MN. Our winter weather is not open-window friendly, but did you know that keeping your blinds closed all season can cause problems with mold and mildew? Condensation will damage your window frames and blinds over time. Fortunately, there are ways to protect your home against condensation, and Shelly’s Interior Concepts has some of the best ones to share.

Image of EverWood® Faux Wood Blinds on a window with snow outside

What Causes Condensation?

When warm air touches a cold surface, condensation is born. The fog that forms on your mirror during your shower is the same moisture that forms inside your windows during winter. Single-pane windows are more prone to condensation than double-pane because they lack insulation from the second layer of glass.

Decrease Humidity

Reducing the humidity inside your home will help to fight condensation. Rooms like kitchens and bathrooms tend to be the most humid, so run a fan while cooking or showering to help circulate the air. Opening your blinds daily, especially on corner and bay windows, is another way to keep moisture at bay; sunshine is always good for you! You can also use a dehumidifier.

Houseplants are another condensation culprit. If you have several houseplants, especially large tropical varieties, try spreading them throughout the house instead of keeping them all in one room.

Insulate

A layer of insulation on windows, especially single-pane ones, will form a pocket of air that restricts the flow of cold air. Insulation also creates a physical barrier between your blinds and condensation. You can purchase a window insulation kit from more hardware stores or use bubble wrap in a pinch.

Checking for air leaks is another way to prevent condensation from forming. If air can sneak in, moisture definitely can. Caulk or add weather stripping to any drafty areas. Foam stripping has an adhesive side which makes it super easy to use.

Keep Blinds from Touching Windows

Physical barriers help keep your blinds free from harm, but ensuring there is space between your blinds and the glass also helps a lot. If you’re using an inside mount, ensure you have enough depth to keep your blinds and window apart. Outside mounts provide more space, but you can also use spacers or projection brackets to increase the distance between the window and window treatment.

Moisture-Resistant Window Treatments

Opting for faux wood or vinyl window coverings gives you enhanced protection from moisture damage. EverWood® Faux Wood Blinds and Palm Beach™ Polysatin™ Vinyl Shutters are two fantastic options, particularly for humid areas in your home. Both styles resist warping and peeling when exposed to moisture and are easy to wipe clean if any pesky mildew does develop.

You can also save on your energy costs and usage by exploring the best window treatments for winter.

Contact Us

Shelly’s Interior Concepts is your one-stop shop for window treatments, fabrics, flooring, and much more. We offer interior design consultations, and estimates are always free. Contact us today to schedule your in-home consultation. We’re proud to serve Saint Michael, Maple Grove, Plymouth, Otsego, Corcoran, and the Twin Cities, MN.