As the weather turns and Autumn arrives, we often find signs of condensation appearing in our homes.
Read on for useful guidance on how to manage condensation, so it doesn’t lead to more serious damp issues.
I hope you find it useful!
Too much moisture and condensation in a property can cause damp and mould, which can negatively affect your health and wellbeing if not fixed.
If you wake up to water on the inside of your windows - that's condensation.
Left to pool, it will lead to damp, black spot mould and eventual deterioration of your windows and your health!
Condenastion will also form in rooms where lots of steam is created - kitchens and bathrooms, as well as gavering in the cormers of rooms and cupboards where there is little or no air-flow.
Here are some steps that you can take to deal with these issues.
1. Wipe down windows and surfaces in the morning where condensation has built up overnight.
2. Open windows throughout the day and night (where it is safe and appropriate to do so) even just for 10 minutes to allow fresh air-flow.
3. Dry laundry outside where possible or in the bathroom with a window slightly open and/or the extractor fan on.
4. Do not use radiators to dry laundry, as this will cause excess moisture to be released, leading to more condensation.
5. Use an extractor fan whenever possible, whilst cooking, using a kettle and running baths and showers.
6. Keep a gap between furniture and external walls, and where possible place furniture against internal walls.
7. Maintain a medium/low level of heat throughout the property, ideally at least 18 degrees.
8. Use a mould spray regularly, on mouldy areas (follow instructions for safe usage) particularly inside shower enclosures.
9. Avoid over-cluttering cupboards and rooms, as this can block airflow and create areas where damp and mould can form.
10. Good insulation is key - a home that is kept warm helps to prevent cold surfaces where condensation can form.
11. Consider thick and heavier curtains in winter as this will help insulate windows.
11. Invest in a good dehumidifier, many of which nowadays even have a laundry setting to help dry clothes faster.
Tel: 01422 842007
Email: enquiries@clairesheehan-estateagents.co.uk