Sometimes you may notice condensation in your home. Occasionally this is confused with damp and, although it can lead to this, there are many simple things that can be done to keep your home safe, warm and dry.
What is condensation?
Particularly during the winter months, condensation (water residue on surfaces such as tiles or windows) can be an issue. This is usually because we start to feel the cold more and spend more time inside our homes, which lads to greater humidity and a build-up of moisture. Although condensation can turn into damp and mould, there is a lot that can be done to prevent this.
What causes condensation?
The top three causes of condensation are:
- Too much moisture in the air.
- Not enough ventilation.
- Cold surfaces within the home.
What are the signs of condensation?
If your property is suffering from condensation and damp, you may notice the following:
- A build-up of moisture on your windows.
- Musty, damp smell.
- Water running down walls and windows.
- Wallpaper peeling.
- Damp patches on walls.
- A build-up of moisture on windows.
- Musty, damp smell.
- Mould growth (especially on exterior walls).
- Wall staining.
What can be done to prevent condensation?
Below are several tips on how we can keep condensation at bay:
- Ensure that any washing machines or tumble dryers are correctly vented.
- Dry clothes outdoors to prevent excess moisture escaping into your property (if this is not possible, open doors or windows).
- Ensure that kitchen or bathroom doors are closed to avoid excess moisture.
- When cooking, cover pans to avoid steam escaping.
- Use an extractor fan, if you have one, when cooking or showering. Or if possible, open a window for at least 15-20 minutes.
- To prevent the build-up of moisture, cover fish tanks and move plants outdoors, if possible.
- Wipe down and dry surfaces after you finish using them.
- Do not overfill wardrobes or cupboards. Overfilled spaces such as these are breeding grounds for mould as the air cannot easily circulate.
- Place wardrobes against internal walls, if possible.
- Keep furniture at least 50mm away from surrounding walls so that air can easily move around your home.
- Ensure that your home is adequately heated.
- Open windows slightly in regularly-used rooms.
Can condensation be tackled?
It is important to tackle condensation-related issues as soon as they are recognised. Here are some steps we can take:
- Fungicidal wash, available at most decorating stores such as Wickes, can be used to wipe down affected walls and window frames.
- For mildewed clothes, dry clean or machine wash; for mouldy carpets, use carpet shampoos.
- Again, most decorating stores and warehouses stock fungicidal paint and fungicidal-resistant wallpaper paste, for internal use.
If you are still struggling, please contact us so that we can look at any possible issues that you may have.
What can I do if the problem is more severe?
If the problem is more severe, you should contact us at:
- Telephone: 0203 007 3170
- Email: repairs@sw9.org.uk
- Online: using the 'Report a repair' form
We have produced a leaflet on how to recognise and report on signs of condensation, damp and mould. Please see the leaflet below.
Condensation, Damp and Mould Leaflet
We have produced a short video all about condensation. You can watch it by clicking on the button below.
Condensation and your home video
Further related advice and information can also be found at:
Energy Saving Tips: five ways to cut costs this winter (BBC)
What is mould and how to get rid of it? (AXA Insurance)
What is mould? (Airtech Solutions)