Interesting points here, especially about installation quality being a bigger factor than frame material. I've definitely seen cases where even high-quality vinyl windows had condensation issues because of poor sealing or insulation around the edges. But honestly, I wouldn't discount the frame material entirely. From what I've experienced, wood frames—when properly maintained and sealed—can actually perform surprisingly well in humid conditions. Sure, they do expand and contract a bit more, but with regular maintenance and good-quality paint or sealant, they can stay pretty stable.
About the orientation thing... that's actually a really good observation. I've noticed something similar in my own house. My north-facing windows consistently have more condensation buildup compared to the south-facing ones. I think sunlight exposure definitely helps dry things out faster, reducing moisture accumulation. But there's also another factor at play: temperature differences between indoor and outdoor surfaces. North-facing windows tend to stay colder longer, creating a bigger temperature differential and thus more condensation.
One thing that hasn't been mentioned yet is indoor humidity control itself. Even the best windows can't completely solve condensation issues if your indoor humidity levels are too high. Last winter, I finally invested in a decent dehumidifier for our basement area, and it made a huge difference upstairs too—much less fogging on all windows regardless of orientation or frame type.
So yeah, while installation quality is crucial, I'd argue that it's really about balancing multiple factors: proper insulation, good window materials (whether vinyl or wood), managing indoor humidity levels, and even considering window orientation when possible. It's rarely just one thing causing the issue... usually it's a combination of several smaller factors adding up.
Good points overall, but honestly, I've had mixed results with wood frames. Even with solid maintenance, they eventually warped a bit in our climate. Switched to fiberglass last year—made a noticeable difference. Could just be my experience, though...
Totally agree about wood frames being tricky in certain climates. I've dealt with similar issues myself—no matter how diligent I was with sealing and repainting, the warping always crept in eventually. Fiberglass is definitely a solid choice, but another option worth considering is vinyl frames. They're pretty affordable and hold up surprisingly well against moisture and temperature swings.
One thing I've found helpful regardless of frame material is keeping an eye on indoor humidity levels. If you haven't already, grab a simple hygrometer to monitor it. Ideally, you want to keep humidity around 30-50% during winter months. Running exhaust fans regularly in kitchens and bathrooms, or even using a small dehumidifier occasionally, can really cut down on condensation buildup.
Also, don't underestimate the power of good curtains or blinds—closing them at night can help insulate windows and reduce temperature differences that cause fogging. Little things like this add up over time...
Vinyl's definitely a practical option, but I've seen it get brittle and crack in extreme cold over time. Curious if anyone's tried composite frames? They're pricier upfront, but might be worth it long-term for harsh climates...
Went composite last year after dealing with cracked vinyl frames—Minnesota winters are brutal. Cost stung a bit upfront, but zero regrets so far. Frames held up great during the last cold snap, and condensation issues are way down. Can't speak to long-term yet, obviously, but initial impressions are solid. If your climate's harsh, composite seems like the smarter bet.