Preventing Damp and Mould 

Condensation is one of the main causes of damp and mould in a home. This is an explanation of how condensation is formed and how to keep it to a minimum.

What is Condensation?

Condensation is caused by moisture in the air and mainly occurs during colder weather. The average household adds five litres of extra water to the air in their home every day; through cooking, bathing and drying clothes inside.

When warm moist air comes into contact with colder air moisture is released as tiny droplets of water. You will see these on cold surfaces like mirrors and windows, this is known as condensation.

Condensation Causes Mould

If you don’t get rid of moisture it will encourage the growth of mould which is a fungus that grows wherever there is moisture. You will see black spots of mould on walls and ceilings. You will also notice a musty smell and items in cupboards can get covered in green fungus. Damp and mould increase the risk of house mites and can cause respiratory problems not treated.

How Can Condensation be Reduced?

If you reduce the amount of moisture that goes into the air in you home, you will reduce the amount of condensation that builds up. You can do this by following a few simple steps…

• Open windows and vents as much as possible
• Try not to put to much stuff into cupboards
• Leave space between furniture and walls to allow air to circulate
• Keep your home warm (in cold weather it is better to keep your home heated throughout the day at a low level than to turn the heating on high for short bursts)
• If possible, dry clothes outside but if you have to dry them indoors then make sure you leave a window open
• Don’t leave loose clothing or bedding in corners of rooms
• When cooking, open windows or use an extractor fan
• Keep a lid on saucepans and don’t let the kettle over boil
• Don’t use portable gas or paraffin heaters

Removing Mould

If you see condensation or mould it is important to remove them as quickly as possible…

• If condensation occurs dry the windows and sills
• Remove and kill mould by wiping down surfaces with a fungicidal wash
• When decorating, use anti-fungal paint to help prevent mould from appearing again
• Don’t brush or vacuum the mould as this can increase the amount of mould spores in the air

If you feel that the damp or mould in your property is not related to excess condensation or you consider that the damp with in your property is exceptionally severe and you require further advice on the matter, please do not hesitate to contact us.