Dampness and Condensation in Homes
Tips to prevent Condensation, Damp and Mould
Condensation is perhaps the most common form of damp that can appear in your home. It appears when warm air meets a colder surface, such as a wall or window. Things like washing, cooking, tumble driers, steam mops, pets and people’s breath put moisture into the air inside your home. The more people and pets in your home, the higher the levels of moisturiser that needs to be removed from the air.
The reason condensation appears is due to moisture being present in the house, and the lack of adequate ventilation and heating.
If not managed, condensation can lead to mould which can be potentially harmful to people and property. If you don’t prevent condensation mould will start to develop, and in ideal conditions mould can germinate in 24 hours and you will be able to see the mould within two to three weeks. The longer that moisture is present, the greater the chance for mould to grow and spread.
If your home is suffering from condensation you will start to see signs of it very quickly, such as:
- Damp or wet walls and windows and furniture
- Peeling wallpaper
- Signs of mould growth
- A musty smell on clothes in wardrobes.
You can prevent condensation build up and make sure your home remains damp and mould free. Below are a few suggestions on how to reduce condensation in your property.
Tips
- Open windows, particularly bedroom windows, every morning for 5-10 minutes to let fresh air in and moisture out
- Make sure window trickle vents are open
- If fitted, make sure vents above living room and bedroom doors are open
- Avoid using paraffin or bottled gas heaters as they create high level of moisture
- Do not switch off or block mechanical ventilation, including extractor fans
- The more people and pets in your home, the higher the levels of moisture that needs to be removed from the air
- It’s important in a colder climate to heat your home and keep it warm
- Use moisture resistant paint when decorating the kitchen or bathroom
Temperature
- Keep the temperature inside your home constant. Recommended temperatures are:
o All living areas (kitchen and sittingroom) 21c
o All other areas 17C
Washing and Drying Clothes
- Avoid drying clothes indoors if possible. If you must, it should be in a well ventilated room with the door closed
- Dehumidifiers can reduce moisture levels
- Make sure tumble driers are properly vented
Kitchen
- If you have a kitchen extractor fan, use it every time you cook. If you don’t have an extractor fan, try to keep a window open. Leave the fan on or the window open for at least 10-15 minutes after you finish cooking to make sure moisture is removed from the room
- Cover pans when cooking to reduce the amount of moisture being released into the air
- Close the kitchen door when cooking. This will prevent moisture in the air going into colder rooms
Bathroom
- If you have a bathroom extractor fan, use it every time you shower or take a bath. If you don’t have an extractor fan, open a window. Leave the fan on or the window open for at least 10 – 15 minutes after you finish to make sure the moisture has all gone. A sign that the bathroom is clear of moisture is when the bathroom mirror is no longer misted over
- Close the bathroom door when bathing or showering, as this will prevent moisture in the air going into colder rooms
Furniture
- Keep furniture away from external walls where possible. If that’s not possible, keep at least 5 cm away from the external wall.
- Do not overfill wardrobes or cupboards. A lack of ventilation can result in mould as air can’t circulate freely inside.
Treating Mould
- Wash the mould growths using a cloth with soap and water.
- Leave surfaces to dry with plenty of ventilation.
- Do not reuse cloths infected with mould/spores to prevent spreading.
If you have followed this advice for a period of time and there is no improvement, please contact Housing Repairs on 01595 744399.