If you live in Vaughan or anywhere in the GTA, you’ve likely faced it: you wake up on a frosty January morning, pull back the curtains, and there it is — a layer of ice on the inside of your windows. Not only is it a hassle to scrape away, but it’s also a sign of deeper issues like poor insulation, high indoor humidity, or aging windows.

Ice buildup can damage frames, encourage mould growth, and hike your heating bills. The good news? You can prevent it with the right strategies and, if necessary, the right window upgrades.

In this guide, I’ll explain why ice forms, how to stop ice buildup on your windows, and the best window solutions for Vaughan winters.

Why Does Ice Form on Windows?

Ice on the inside of windows happens when moisture in your home’s air condenses on cold glass and freezes. In Vaughan’s sub-zero winters, the difference between indoor and outdoor temperatures can be extreme — especially if your windows aren’t well insulated.

The most common culprits include:

  • High indoor humidity – Activities like cooking, showering, or drying clothes indoors add extra moisture to your home’s air.

  • Single-pane or poorly insulated glass – These allow heat to escape quickly, leaving the interior surface cold.

  • Damaged weatherstripping or failing seals – Small gaps let in frigid air that lowers glass temperature even further.

  • Blocked airflow near windows – Heavy curtains or furniture placed too close prevent warm air from your heating system from reaching the glass.

When these factors combine, the result is a cycle: cold glass → condensation → ice. And if left unchecked, that ice can damage frames, create mould risks, and drive up heating costs.

Step-by-Step Ways to Stop Ice Buildup on Your Windows

Infographic titled "Steps to Prevent Window Ice Buildup" showing six tips in a stair-step layout — control humidity, improve air circulation, seal leaks, upgrade windows, use storm windows, and maintain heating system — to help reduce frost and ice on windows.

1. Control Indoor Humidity

One of the fastest ways to reduce frost is to keep your indoor humidity between 30–40% in winter.
Tips:

  • Use a dehumidifier.

  • Turn on exhaust fans while cooking or showering.

  • Avoid drying laundry indoors.

If you’re not sure about your humidity levels, consider getting a hygrometer — it’s a small investment that can save your windows.

2. Improve Air Circulation Around Windows

Warm air from your heating system needs to reach the glass.

  • Keep curtains or blinds open during the day.

  • Avoid placing large furniture directly in front of windows.

  • Use ceiling fans on a low reverse setting to push warm air downwards.

3. Seal Leaks and Improve Weatherstripping

Gaps around the window frame let in cold air, increasing condensation.

  • Check for drafts with a candle or incense stick — if the flame flickers, there’s a leak.

  • Replace worn weatherstripping.

  • Apply caulking around exterior frames where sealant is cracked.

For detailed repair tips, see our Signs Your Windows Need Replacing guide.

4. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Windows

If your windows are old or single-pane, no amount of caulking will match the performance of modern energy-efficient models.
Options like triple-pane windows with Low-E coatings and argon gas fill keep the interior glass warmer, reducing condensation and frost risk.

Popular styles for improved insulation include:

5. Use Storm Windows

If replacing windows isn’t in your immediate budget, storm windows can add an insulating layer to keep glass warmer and reduce frost. They’re especially useful for heritage homes in Vaughan where full replacement isn’t possible right away.

6. Maintain Your Heating System

Uneven heating creates cold spots where condensation — and eventually ice — can form. Annual HVAC maintenance helps ensure consistent warmth across your home, including areas near windows.

Have a professional check for leaky ducts, poor airflow, or furnace inefficiency. In some Vaughan homes, adding vents near large windows or running ceiling fans in reverse can help circulate warm air and keep glass surfaces above freezing.

Smiling Polaris technician in winter clothing using a screwdriver to work on a frost-covered window, demonstrating a solution for preventing ice buildup on windows.

The Polaris Solution for Vaughan Homes

At Polaris Windows & Doors, we’ve helped countless Vaughan homeowners solve winter frost problems for good. Our process begins with a complimentary in-home consultation, during which we assess your current windows, identify air leaks, and recommend solutions tailored to your specific home.

Why Vaughan homeowners trust us:

  • Local climate expertise: We know exactly how harsh our winters can be and design for them.

  • Custom sizing: Perfect fit for new builds or retrofits.

  • Top-tier energy performance: Many models meet or exceed ENERGY STAR® Canada requirements.

  • Flexible financing: Including “Don’t Pay for 90 Days” plans.

  • Lifetime transferable warranties: Added peace of mind and resale value.

See our Vaughan Window Installation Services to learn more.

Final Thoughts

Ice buildup on windows is more than a seasonal annoyance — it’s a sign your home could be losing heat and costing you money. By controlling humidity, sealing leaks, and upgrading to high-performance windows, you can enjoy a frost-free winter and lower energy bills.

Check our Google Business Profile or see us on Google Maps to read reviews from Vaughan homeowners who have already made the switch.

📞 Ready to stop ice buildup for good?
Contact Polaris Windows & Doors today for a free consultation.

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