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Perhaps I have your name wrong as you did not sign your post. I do not know where you are located. If in FL or TX, this issue would be relatively unusual. If in the middle to northern tier, it would be very common. You mention humidification. Please further elaborate, as generally humidification in historic buildings in the winter in the mid to northern latitudes is not recommended. It is for just the issues you mention. Windows are cold, and frequently they are below the dew point temperature (condensation point) based upon the interior RH and temperature. Not only does water condense on the windows, but it also penetrates the walls and typically condenses on the interior surfaces of the exterior sheathing. This you can not see, but results potentially in rotting of the wood and peeling of the exterior paint or spalling of masonry. The best and easiest solution is to reduce interior temperatures. The lower the better. Colder temperatures require less moisture to keep them at the same RH, thus the likelihood of condensation is reduced. Your situation is much more complicated than can be addressed in a simple email, so feel free to email me off-list to discuss this further.

BTW, I fully agree that 3M interior storm shrink-wrap is FAR better than the Frost King as far as adhesion of the tape and less failures. I have used this type of temporary storm windows for at least 15 years and currently use them. However, the tape can pull off paint from the trim/woodwork when you eventually remove the windows. If you have historic paint or finishes, you need to watch out for this. I keep them in place year-round, as in the summer they block hot air from entering. I have some that have lasted 3-4 years, but there are small failures of the tape that need to be addressed each year.

From: [log in to unmask] href="mailto:[log in to unmask]">leonard cicero

Sent: Monday, December 11, 2017 1:05 PM

To: [log in to unmask] href="mailto:[log in to unmask]">[log in to unmask]

Subject: [MUSEUM-L] historic home vs. humidity levels

My institution began in an historic home. We currently use the interior of the home as exhibition space. A constant problem has been regulating humidity levels in the galleries. The windows of the home are leaded glass and drafty. After recently updating the humidifiers, we now are experiencing condensation on the interiors of the windows of the old home. We have the shades drawn to limit the light levels on the artwork residing in the galleries, which is preventing the heat from warming the interiors of the windows. The condensation is forming between the shades and the windows.

Does anyone have similar experiences with this problem? I would appreciate suggestions on how to insulate the windows without attaching anything to the interior walls or exterior of the building.