Condensation Standards
Coverage Summary
| Issue | Covered | Period | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Condensation on windows | ✗ | — | Result of humidity and temperature |
| Condensation damage | ✗ | — | Unless caused by covered construction defect |
| Window seal failure (between panes) | ✓ | 1 year | Different from surface condensation |
Condensation on the interior surface of windows is humidity-related and not covered. Condensation between window panes indicates a broken seal (covered under warranty for 1 year).
Performance Standards
Window Surface Condensation
Standard: Condensation on interior window surfaces is not a defect. It indicates high humidity inside the home.
Coverage: Not covered - this results from weather conditions and lifestyle factors that Classic Homes cannot control.
Window Seal Failure
Standard: Dual-pane windows should maintain their seal with no moisture between panes.
Coverage: If condensation appears between window panes (indicating a broken seal), this is covered for 1 year.
Condensation-Related Damage
Standard: Damage from condensation is generally not covered.
Coverage: Exception: Damages are covered if they are a direct result of a construction defect covered by the Limited Warranty.
What's Not Covered
The following are excluded from warranty coverage:
- Condensation on interior window surfaces - This indicates high indoor humidity, not a window defect
- Damage caused by condensation - Mold, water stains, or material damage from moisture
- Humidifier-related issues - Classic Homes does not install humidifiers and is not responsible for damage from humidifier installation or improper use
- Lifestyle-related humidity - Cooking, showers, aquariums, plants, and other moisture sources
Understanding Condensation
Why It Happens: When warm, moist interior air contacts cooler surfaces (windows, doors), moisture condenses. This is the same process that creates dew outdoors.
New Construction Moisture: A typical new home contains approximately 50 gallons of water in lumber, concrete, drywall, paint, caulk, and other materials. This moisture evaporates over time, which is why condensation may be more noticeable in your first year of ownership.
Daily Activities: Cooking, laundry, baths, showers, aquariums, plants, and even breathing add moisture to indoor air.
Reducing Condensation
- Check your humidifier - Lower setting or turn off if condensation appears
- Use exhaust fans - Run during and after showers, and when cooking
- Verify dryer vent - Ensure connected and venting outside
- Open windows briefly - Air out the home when weather permits
- Moderate thermostat - Avoid extreme temperature settings
Filing a Claim
If you believe you have a warranty issue:
- Review the Use & Care Guide for troubleshooting steps
- Determine if issue is:
- Surface condensation (not covered)
- Condensation between window panes (covered - broken seal)
- For broken window seals: Request Service
Related Standards
Care Tips: See Condensation Use & Care for prevention and management guidance.