Blog
How to stop or fix condensation on your composite doors
Are you noticing condensation on your front door, door handles, or letterbox? Are you worried about the build-up of condensation on your composite door? This article will help you understand why condensation on front doors occurs and, more importantly, how to stop or fix it.
Why does condensation form on a composite door?
Condensation on a composite door mostly happens during the cold months of the year when the air outside is much colder than the air inside our homes. Warm air is capable of holding more water than cold air, so when the warm air meets a cold surface, it cools and can’t hold as much water and is forced to leave some behind. This results in internal condensation, leaving the inside of your front door wet and water droplets on some of the door’s parts, such as glazed units, door panels, or bifold door frames.
With the cold spells that we have in the UK and Ireland across the year, many people have condensation issues on doors and windows. It’s no surprise then that ‘why does my front door have condensation’ is a question we often get asked here at Apeer.
Does a composite door cause condensation?
By definition, condensation is an unavoidable problem and is not caused by any fault in the composite door. However, condensation can be made worse by a high-quality door as the lack of airflow traps damp air inside, leading to moisture build-up. For instance, our double rebate and 70mm thick doors have an air-tight seal, meaning drought can’t get in to let the moisture out – find out more about high-quality composite doors that keep the heat in.
How to stop condensation on front doors
There are a number of easy ways in which condensation on a composite door can be prevented or minimised:
- Limit the amount of moisture produced by opening a window or using a dehumidifier when drying cloths or showering and by using an extractor hood when cooking or boiling water
- Improve ventilation by ensuring there is adequate airflow where your front door is located and by having the trickle vents of your window open throughout the day
- Ensure your front door’s weatherstripping is providing a tight seal – when a seal is worn out or damaged, it can allow moisture in, contributing to condensation.
Taking some of the above steps will also help prevent condensation from forming on windows, patio doors or bifold doors, around door frames and on sliding glass doors.
Why would I see water around my composite door?
In rare instances, you might see water around or on your composite door that looks like a leak is occurring. That doesn’t mean there’s a problem with your door, but you will need to check the drainage holes around your door. A bit like the drainage hole in your fridge being obstructed, any dirt or such getting in will mean water finds another route out.
Why Is My Front Door Wet On The Inside
If your front door is wet on the inside, it could be due to high humidity levels indoors, poor ventilation, or blocked drainage holes around the door. Keeping these clear will prevent water build-up.
Condensation on Door Handles and Letterboxes
Cold metal surfaces like door handles and letterboxes can attract condensation. Wiping them down regularly and improving airflow near the door can help reduce this issue.
Helping you keep your composite door in good shape
Managing condensation is about controlling humidity, improving airflow, and maintaining door seals. If you’re experiencing composite door condensation problems, follow these tips for a door condensation fix.
For more information on how to protect your front door from condensation, contact us or consult our blog – it includes many helpful door maintenance guides, such as the Common Composite Door Problems guide or our How to Clean a Composite Door blog.
FAQs On Composite Doors Condensation
Why does condensation form on my front door?
Condensation occurs when warm, humid indoor air meets the colder surface of your front door. This causes moisture in the air to turn into water droplets on the door’s surface.
How can I stop condensation on my front door?
To reduce condensation, control indoor humidity with dehumidifiers, improve airflow using trickle vents, and check that door seals are intact to prevent excess moisture build-up.
Why is the inside of my front door wet?
If the inside of your door is wet, it may be due to poor ventilation or high indoor humidity. Ensuring proper airflow and using extractor fans can help reduce moisture.
What causes condensation on door handles and letterboxes?
Cold metal surfaces like handles and letterboxes attract condensation when exposed to warm, humid air. Wiping them regularly and improving ventilation can minimise this issue.
Does a composite door cause condensation?
No, composite doors don’t cause condensation. However, their airtight insulation can trap moisture inside, making condensation more noticeable if ventilation is inadequate.
What’s the difference between internal and external condensation?
Internal condensation forms inside due to high humidity and poor airflow. External condensation is a natural effect on well-insulated doors when cold air meets a warm surface.
How do I fix condensation around my door frame?
Ensure proper insulation, check for gaps in weatherstripping, and use a dehumidifier to manage moisture levels in your home.
Why do my patio or bifold doors have condensation?
Patio and bifold doors may develop condensation due to temperature differences. Keeping a steady indoor temperature and using trickle vents can help.