Yeah, thicker curtains helped me too. I also found cracking the window just a tiny bit overnight reduced condensation—seems counterintuitive, but it worked. Mountain life definitely has its quirks...
"I also found cracking the window just a tiny bit overnight reduced condensation—seems counterintuitive, but it worked."
Interesting point, but I'd be cautious about relying on that approach long-term. While cracking the window slightly does help with condensation by improving airflow, you're also letting in cold air, which can lower indoor temperatures significantly and force your heating system to work harder. In my experience, investing in proper ventilation solutions like trickle vents or a small heat recovery ventilator (HRV) tends to be more energy-efficient and effective overall. Mountain homes definitely require some creative thinking though...
I've been thinking about this too, because cracking the window does seem to help temporarily, but it feels like a bit of a band-aid solution. Last winter, I tried leaving my bedroom window slightly open overnight to reduce condensation, and while it did help with moisture, I woke up freezing every morning and noticed my heating bill creeping up. Not ideal.
I ended up installing trickle vents on a couple of windows, and honestly, they've made a noticeable difference without letting in too much cold air. But now I'm curious about HRVs—I've heard good things but haven't tried one myself yet. Are they complicated or expensive to install? My place is older and pretty small, so I'm wondering if it's even practical for me.
Also, has anyone experimented with those insulating window films or thermal curtains? I've seen mixed reviews online—some people swear by them, others say they're barely noticeable. Seems like condensation might still be an issue even if the insulation improves...
"Are they complicated or expensive to install? My place is older and pretty small, so I'm wondering if it's even practical for me."
HRVs can be great, but in my experience, retrofitting them into older homes can get pricey fast. I ended up sticking with thermal curtains—they don't totally eliminate condensation, but they're affordable and keep things noticeably warmer.
HRVs can be great, but in my experience, retrofitting them into older homes can get pricey fast. I ended up sticking with thermal curtains—they don't totally eliminate condensation, but they're...
HRVs can indeed become complicated and costly in older homes, especially if space is tight or ductwork isn't already in place. Thermal curtains are a decent workaround, but if condensation is a persistent issue, you might also consider interior storm windows or window insulation film. Both are affordable, straightforward to install, and significantly reduce heat loss and condensation without major renovations. Worth looking into before committing to something pricier like an HRV.
I went through something similar a couple winters ago. My house is pushing 80 years old, and the windows were basically acting like condensation magnets every time the temperature dropped. Thermal curtains helped a bit, but honestly, they mostly just hid the problem rather than solving it.
What really made a noticeable difference for me was installing interior storm windows. I was skeptical at first—seemed like another gimmicky DIY fix—but they genuinely cut down on condensation and drafts. Installation wasn't too bad either; took me an afternoon with basic tools and some patience. Window film can work too, but I found it less durable over time, especially if you have pets or kids who might poke at it.
HRVs are great in theory, but retrofitting one into an older home can quickly spiral into a bigger project than anticipated (ask me how I know...). Sometimes simpler solutions really do get the job done without breaking the bank or tearing apart your walls.
"HRVs are great in theory, but retrofitting one into an older home can quickly spiral into a bigger project than anticipated (ask me how I know...)."
Haha, been there myself. Thought I'd just pop one in over a weekend—ended up spending two weeks chasing down ductwork issues. Interior storm windows are definitely underrated though. Another thing that helped me was sealing around the window frames with some quality caulk before installing them. Small step, but it really tightened things up and made the whole setup more effective.
Yeah, interior storms and caulking definitely help, but honestly, I've found heavy thermal curtains to be a lifesaver. I was skeptical at first—thought they'd look tacky—but there are some decent-looking ones out there now. Plus, they're way easier than wrestling with ductwork or window frames. Not saying they're perfect, but for a quick fix that doesn't spiral into a month-long DIY saga... they've got my vote.
Thermal curtains are definitely underrated—I used to think they were just overpriced regular curtains until I actually tried them out. But honestly, if you're up at higher altitudes or in a colder climate, you might want to double down and combine them with window film kits. Those shrink-wrap films might sound flimsy, but I've found they can really cut down on drafts without being too noticeable. Plus, they're pretty cheap and easy to install (hairdryer and 20 mins tops).
I totally get the aversion to DIY rabbit holes though... been there more times than I care to admit. Still, a little extra sealing around the edges of your windows can make a huge difference. I usually use rope caulk—it's removable, doesn't leave residue, and you don't have to be super precise with it. Just press it in place, and you're good for the season. Between thermal curtains, film kits, and rope caulk, you've got yourself a pretty solid defense against the cold without breaking your back or budget.
- Thermal curtains are solid, but honestly, I've had mixed results with those shrink-wrap film kits.
- They do cut drafts, sure, but if you've got pets or curious kids, they puncture way too easily.
- Personally, I've found cellular shades to be a better long-term investment—bit pricier upfront, but sturdier and just as effective.
- Rope caulk is legit though... saved me more than once when winter hit hard.