Condensation and mould advice
Condensation is caused when warm moist air and steam from cooking, washing and drying clothes, and bathing comes into contact with cold surfaces such as outside walls and windows before it can leave the building.
What causes condensation?
There are four main factors that cause condensation:
- Too much moisture being produced in the home
- Not enough ventilation
- Cold surfaces.
- The temperature of your home.
What steps can I take to reduce condensation in my home and get rid of mould?
Up to 17 litres of water can be produced in some homes by general day to day activities such as cooking, drying clothes indoors and bathing. A few simple changes could reduce condensation and mould growth:
Cooking
- Cover pots with lids when cooking.
- Use an extractor fan or open a window to let steam out of the kitchen.
- Shut the kitchen door.
- Only boil the water you need in the kettle.
Washing
- Dry clothes outside (if you can).
- If you need to dry clothes indoors make sure the room is heated and ventilated. Preferably please use the bathroom and ensure the humidistat fan is running.
- Keep a window open to allow moisture to escape.
- Do not dry your washing on radiators.
- Make sure your tumble dryer is vented correctly.
Showering and Bathing
- Turn on an extractor fan if you have one or open a window to allow moisture to escape (for at least 15 minutes after you have had your shower).
- Keep the bathroom door shut when showering.
- Use a bathmat to soak up moisture and reduce condensation.
Ventilation
- In winter, open windows for short periods. Outdoor air is much drier than indoor air and opening the window allows the moist air to escape and dry air to enter.
- Do not block air vents.
- Purge your home by opening a window to the front and rear of your property for at least 15 minutes every day, fresh air is good for you and your home.
- Ensure the trickle vents to your windows are open.
- Are your extractor fans old? We can upgrade where required, please contact us.
Heating
- Make sure your home is heated adequately.
- It is effective to keep your home at a constant temperature all day. This will help raise the internal temperature of surfaces and reduce condensation forming.
- If you cannot afford to spend more money on fuel because of high bills, ask your fuel supplier about their budget schemes and/or contact the council to see if you are eligible for help through the Household Support Fund.
- Understanding how your boiler works and how to set it correctly could help you to reduce your heating bill. The thermostat should be set to the lowest comfortable temperature, typically between 18°C and 21°C. Turning up your room thermostat won’t make your home heat any faster. Room thermostats need a free flow of air to sense the temperature, so make sure they’re not blocked by curtains or furniture and keep them away from heat sources.
Other tips
- Don't overfill your wardrobes and cupboards. A lack of ventilation and air moisture trapped in warm cupboards can lead to mould growth.
- Move furniture away from external walls so that air can circulate, leave at least a 2 inch or 5cm gap between them.
- Wipe down cold surfaces to remove any moisture that has settled after cooking or washing.
- Wipe down any windows and sills each morning where condensation forms.
What steps can I take to treat mould?
If you are experiencing issues with mould, then you need to follow the advice below to treat it first and then follow the advice listed above to prevent it coming back.
- For tiles use a toothbrush dipped in mould and mildew spray or diluted vinegar. Leave it for 15 minutes before rinsing well
- Stained sealant may have to be cut out and reapplied.
- Use a branded mould remover and treatment, but make sure that you follow the manufacturer's instructions and it is from a recognised brand. You can buy mould removal products from most DIY stores.
- Make sure you use a good anti-fungal paint which will help stop mould from returning
- If your clothes are affected, you will need to wash or dry-clean them.
If the problem continues, please contact us and we will carry out an inspection of your home to see if there could be any other contributing factors.
Please complete our online form (link to form) including photos of all the affected areas or call 01303 853300 to arrange an appointment.
Please report any repair issues that could be causing damp in your home, such as leaking gutters, pipes or anything else that you feel may be a factor.
Via the Mears App
Call 0800 028 7010