Condensation happens when high levels of humid air are trapped in a building with poor ventilation, meaning it can’t escape. Moisture condenses once it touches a cold surface, like a window or wall, and this is what leads to mould growth.
What is Condensation?
All air holds moisture, known as water vapour, but the warmer the air is the more it can hold. Once it comes into contact with a cold surface like a window or mirror, the air will cool and the vapour will turn into water droplets, causing condensation: this is known as the dew point.
Household activities including cooking, showering, and even breathing can release moisture into the air. Did you know an average family of 4 can generate approximately 24 pints (14 litres) of water a day?
Tell-Tales Signs of Condensation
During the colder winter months, usually October to April, you’re more likely to notice condensation as windows are kept closed to retain heat. However, it can also be spotted in other areas such as cold walls and floors, or even in roof voids and suspended floors. It can be especially worrisome if these areas contain any timber, which are likely to rot. Nearly all properties will have some form of condensation, but if you spot any of the below signs it could be time to investigate further:
· Damp walls with blistering paint
· Damaged, peeling wallpaper
· A mouldy, damp odour
· Mould on the edges of windows, skirting boards, or around wall/floor/ceiling junctions
And if there is a ‘tide mark’ on the surface, the condensation may be down to water entering through rising damp or even penetrating damp.
How to Stop Condensation
Fortunately, you can help reduce and even stop condensation in your property. Whilst trying to keep doors and windows open is your first port of call, you can also:
· Avoid drying clothes inside, either on radiators or clothes airers
· Cover pans when cooking and use an extractor fan if possible
· Stop kettles from overboiling
· Improve ventilation to bathrooms and kitchens and make sure that doors are closed when in use
· Keep a constant low level background heating, rather than having temperature spikes. This will also keep wall surfaces warm
