How To Stop Condensation On Bifold Doors: 4 Simple Solutions
Are you tired of dealing with persistent condensation on your uPVC bifold doors? Not only does condensation obstruct your view, but it can also cause damp issues and damage to your doors.
Fortunately, there are some straightforward ways to combat this frustrating problem. We’re here to show you how to stop condensation building on your bifold doors with four straightforward solutions.
Why does condensation occur on bifold doors?
To bid farewell to condensation and maintain crystal-clear bifold doors, it's essential to understand its root cause. Put simply, condensation occurs when warm, moist air hits a cooler surface. The change in temperature causes the water vapour to transform into liquid droplets. It can develop on any cold surface — whether that’s a window pane or a lunchbox in the fridge.
Bifold doors offer a fantastic way to let plenty of natural light in and create a seamless transition between your indoor and outdoor spaces. However, because they feature expansive glass panels, these doors are also very susceptible to condensation.
It’s very normal for condensation to occur in small amounts, particularly in the winter when you have the heating on. However, excessive condensation can lead to more severe problems, including:
- Mould
- Peeling paint
- An unpleasant smell
How to stop condensation building on your bifold doors
Now you know what causes condensation, it’s time to look at how to stop condensation from developing on your bifold doors.
Ultimately, avoiding condensation on any type of window or door is all about managing a room’s temperature and humidity levels. There are a few ways you can lower the risk of condensation forming on the panes of your bifold doors…
Enhance ventilation for optimal airflow
Improving ventilation is a key step in preventing condensation on your bifold doors. Proper airflow helps regulate the temperature and moisture levels by lowering the chance of water vapour building up on the glass. Start by making sure your rooms are well-ventilated, allowing fresh air to circulate freely.
You can achieve this by keeping your bifold doors open — which can be lovely in the summer. In the winter months, you may prefer to open a window to keep cold drafts to a minimum. Another option is to use extractor fans.
Additionally, consider using trickle vents or air vents specifically designed for bifold doors. These vents can be installed at the top or bottom of the doors to facilitate the exchange of air, minimising the chance of condensation formation. With bifold doors from Flying Doors, you have the option to customise
Maintain consistent temperatures
When warm moisture meets a cold surface, it can cause condensation. So balancing temperature differences is another effective strategy to combat condensation on your bifold doors. How? Your best bet is to try to maintain a consistent temperature in your living space.
Proper insulation can help reduce drastic temperature variations. For instance, installing weatherstripping or draught excluders around the edges of your doors can prevent cold air from seeping in. This will help create a more stable and balanced environment, reducing the likelihood of condensation.
Curtains and blinds can add an extra layer of insulation and regulate heat transfer.
Control humidity levels
As well as controlling temperature levels, you want to keep humidity levels as consistent as possible. If your rooms are full of warm air, it’ll turn into condensation as soon as it hits those bifold door glass panels.
The usual culprits are bathrooms and kitchens, but if you dry your laundry inside, you may also experience more condensation on your windows and doors. To reduce the humidity in your rooms, you could try setting up dehumidifiers. These devices remove excess moisture from the air, reducing the chances of condensation.
It’s also wise to use extractor fans when cooking or showering to expel humid air directly outside and minimise the amount of wet laundry you hang on radiators. Monitoring and controlling the humidity levels will go a long way in keeping your bifold doors clean and clear.
Regular cleaning and maintenance
Although temperature and moisture are the main factors in condensation, dust and dirt can make the problem worse. Debris can cause pockets for moisture to settle in, particularly in the corners, where the glass meets the doorframe.
By giving your bifold doors a regular wipe-over with a mild, non-abrasive glass cleaner, you can remove any buildup.
How to clean bifold doors
- Start by using a soft microfibre cloth to remove any dust or loose debris from the glass panels
- Then, dip a clean cloth into a mixture of mild detergent and warm water and gently wipe the glass panels. Remember to get into the corners and edges
- Dry the glass with a soft, lint-free cloth to prevent streaks or water spots
It’s also a good idea to inspect the door seals and gaskets for any signs of wear or damage on a regular basis. Damaged seals and other common problems with bifold doors can compromise the insulation and contribute to condensation.
What to do if you see condensation on your bifold doors
There’s plenty you can do to minimise condensation — but it’s not always possible to eliminate it completely. So if you do see moisture on your doors, use a dry cloth to remove as much as possible, then open the window to ventilate the room.
Invest in high-quality bifold doors from Flying Doors
Bifold doors are a wonderful addition to any home. They’re easy to manoeuvre, increase the value of your home and bring plenty of light into your indoor space. However, when purchasing bifold doors, it’s important to look for models made with care and attention. Poor-quality doors may lead to failing seals, which can increase the risk of condensation, so always go with trusted providers.
At Flying Doors, all of our uPVC and composite doors and windows come with a 10-year guarantee, so you can buy with confidence. We manufacture all our bifold doors in the UK and use top-quality materials. Browse our range of bifold doors today, and feel free to get in touch if you have any questions.