H o u s i n g
Combating condensation, mould and mildew
Timely advice from MHS A
s the nights draw in and the heating goes on, condensation can cause problems in your home which, if not addressed,
can lead to mould and mildew. Here are some handy hints to keep you and your family warm and dry this winter.
Condensation is the water produced when warm moist air or steam meets a cold surface such as windows, walls or floors. It is also caused by boiling kettles and saucepans, washing and drying clothes – even breathing and bathing cause condensation!
Condensation is sometimes so severe that householders believe their windows leak or that their house is structurally damp. Condensation is often more of a problem in newer houses where doors and windows are more draught proof than in older properties, where there is central heating installed and there are no or fewer chimneys.
Condensation can cause mould growth on walls and can damage clothes and furnishings. Controlling it is a matter of reducing sources of water vapour to a minimum and finding the right balance between heating and ventilation in your particular house.
Top tips to control condensation • When washing and drying clothes or cooking, keep the kitchen door shut and the window open
• During and after bathing, keep the bathroom door shut and the window open
• Air your house every day. Every window in the house should be open for at least 10-15 minutes each day except in the coldest weather
• Keep your bedroom windows slightly open at night, as even your breath contains a lot of water vapour
• Take advantage of dry, sunny days to give your house a good airing and don’t forget the cupboards
• Use extractor fans where fitted • NEVER block up air bricks, flues or ventilators – it is dangerous
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• Keep your house warm (consistent with fuel economy requirements) even if you are out during the day.
Dealing with condensation and mould If you follow our top tips, condensation will not be a serious problem but however careful you are it may still occur to a lesser degree in certain weather conditions. If it does: • Always mop up condensation (on windowsills for example) as soon as you notice it. If it spills over, it may cause mould on walls or damp patches on carpets that are difficult to dry out
• If mould appears on walls or ceilings, wash it off carefully and straight away with either a commercially available domestic mould prevention product or a solution of one tablespoon of household bleach to a pint of warm water. If you give the mould spores time to get established, they will be more difficult to eradicate. Take care though – bleach can damage surfaces and you may be charged at
Move-Out for any spills to carpets or curtains.
• If mould appears on clothes or furnishings, brush off and air thoroughly. (If you are not going to wear clothes for some time, it is a good plan to have them cleaned before putting them away, preferably hung in polythene sheaths. However, make sure the air can circulate in the sheath)
• Make sure you check for mould damage to walls behind portable wall units. These often stand close to the wall, restricting air circulation which would normally dry off any surface moisture, so preventing mould growth. If you allow mould spores to become established, the affected area needs to be given a fungicidal wash and decorated. If you request MHS to do this for you, in some circumstances we may charge you.
By following these tips your home will be cosy, comfortable and condensation-free through the cooler months.
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