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Re: Mold and mildew on wood window frame

From: info@builderswebsource.com
Category: Windows and Doors
Remote Name: 63.198.181.43
Date: 30 May 2002
Time: 12:43 AM

Comments

You have a bedroom with a vaulted ceiling and recessed skylights. In the winter there is condensation or ice on the window causing mold and mildew on the wood frame. To remedy this you need to fix the source of the problem. Condensation or ice forming on the interior of the window is a sign of high indoor humidity and/or poor thermal performance of your windows. Generally, condensation occurs when the outside temperature is significantly lower than the inside temperature. Where the cold meets the warm moist air, condensation results. Worse, ice dams can form if the temperature differential is particularly great. Generally, a high-performance double-pane window will eliminate this problem. In very cold climates, sometimes triple-pane windows or storm windows are required to provide an added layer of protection. You should have your windows examined to see if they are leaking or whether the thermal performance has been compromised. If you only have single pane windows, this problem will be alleviated by installing new windows.

As to cleaning and removing the existing mold, we recommend a mild solution of bleach and water. If this doesn't work, try using a mixture of Zinsser Jomax, bleach and water. Zinsser Jomax is available from the Home Depot or other home improvement supply store. When mixed with bleach and water, the bleach activates the Jomax to attack mildew and fungus. It is then easy to wipe away. You can add a mildewcide next time you repaint your windows, although we don't usually recommend this on the interior. Ultimately, however, you must get to the root cause of your condensation and that may require you to upgrade your windows and/or lower your indoor humidity with a dehumidifier.

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