How to Avoid Condensation & Mould in Your Home

During the winter months, many properties suffer from damp and mould growth due to condensation.

Causes & Signs of Condensation

Air can hold moisture - the warmer the air, the more moisture it can hold. If moist air is cooled by contact with cold surfaces, such as walls, windows or mirrors, the moisture condenses into water droplets, known as condensation.

Mould often occurs because of condensation. It appears as small black spots but can multiply and spread if left untreated. It usually appears on the side surfaces of external walls, in corners and in poorly ventilated spaces, such as behind cupboards and wardrobes.

The control of condensation requires a combination of sufficient heating, ventilation and insulation.

Heating

By introducing low level heating, the temperature of internal surfaces will rise and will reduce cooling of any moisture-laden air, as a result, the amount of condensation.

Ideally, low level background heating should be continuous, as any short bursts of heat may not result in a suitable rise in surface temperatures.

Insulation

Thermal insulation, such as loft or cavity wall insulation, draught proofing and double glazing, will help to reduce the amount of heat lost from a property. This will not only help keep internal room temperatures higher, but will also help to keep gas and electricity costs down. 

Ventilation

Adequate ventilation is essential to allow moisture-laden air to escape from the home before condensation occurs. Opening windows or vents & extractor fans in the kitchen and bathroom can prove very effective in reducing condensation, especially when fitted with an effective humidistat control. 

If the windows have trickle vents (slotted vents in the window frames), leave them open when rooms are occupied – even in the winter when your heating is on. These vents provide constant ventilation. If your windows dont have trickle vents you can usually open the window slightly and secure on the night latch.

How to reduce condensation

• pull wardrobes and furniture away from walls, and keep tops of wardrobes clear, to allow air to circulate
• close doors and open windows when cooking
• keep lids on saucepans when cooking
• keep bathroom doors closed when bathing, and open windows slightly afterwards or use an extractor fan
• do not dry clothes on radiators, unless ventilation is increased

Extreme cases

In extreme cases, try the following:

• a dehumidifier, which extracts moisture from the air
• wipe down surfaces affected by condensation regularly to prevent mould growth
• mould can be removed by washing the surface with a disinfectant or a fungicidal wash. This must be used in accordance with the manufacturers' instructions.

Mould-inhibiting paints and sprays can also help to reduce the effects of condensation.

Contact us for more information on 0151 322 2003 or if you think you have a maintenance issue, report it here >> Online Maintenance Reporting Form.