Condensation and Mould
Why do you get condensation?
Air can only hold a certain amount of water vapour therefore the warmer it is the
more it can hold. If it is then cooled by contact with cold surfaces such as mirrors,
windows and walls the water vapour turns into water droplets, which creates
condensation. All homes need ventilating i.e. opening a window, if there is a
central heating system in place.
When is it a problem?
Every home at some point will get condensation, it usually happens when moisture such as having a
bath and steam are produced, when a main meal is being cooked and when your clothes are being
washed. It often occurs in bedroom, if its been a cold night and there is not a lot you can do about
this. However, if you feel its something that happens too often then please read on for more
advice…..
How do you know if it is condensation?
Condensation is usually found on north-facing walls and in corners in cupboards and under work
surfaces, usually where there is little air movement. You should check for leaks under sinks, check
pipes and overflows. Checking outside is important too as the gutter might have a crack or pipes
may be leaking. All of these repairs can be reported to us on 01869 249499. If you are
living in a new or recently modernised property, you should take into consideration that it may not
have dried out from building materials that have been used. This can take 9-18 months. You may
need to use more heat during the 9-18 months.
What can you do about it?
Condensation occurs less when the property is kept warm.
1. Drying clothes - Drying your clothes indoors on a radiator can cause a great amount of condensation. Only dry clothes inside as a last resort and if you do then make sure you open a window so that you can ventilate the property.
2. Cupboards and wardrobes - Don’t overfill cupboards and wardrobes , always make sure that some air can circulate freely by fitting ventilators in doors and leaving space at the back of the shelves.
3. Doors - Keep kitchen and bathroom doors shut, particularly when cooking, washing or bathing, otherwise water vapour will spread right through the house and condensation will probably reach other rooms.
4. Extractor fans - If you have an extractor fan, use it when the windows get steamed up and when cooking, bathing or showering.
5. Kettles and pans - be careful not to allow kettles and pans to boil for any longer then necessary and with pans always use a lid when cooking.
Mould Growth
If you have mould growth, the chances are that it is a result of condensation. It is important that you
remove mould by washing down affected areas with a bleach type solution or a mould removal
solution (available from most supermarkets) as untreated mould will spread. The only permanent cure is to reduce the amount of condensation.