Condensation and Mould Growth
PREVENTING CONDENSATION AND MOULD GROWTH
WHAT IS CONDENSATION?
Condensation dampness is a condition that affects many homes and has probably become the major cause of ‘environmental’ dampness within a property. Condensation is particularly common in homes which are poorly heated and poorly insulated and usually gets worse in the colder winter months i.e. ‘the condensation season’.
PROBLEMS CAUSED BY CONDENSATION
Running water on windows and walls is perhaps the most immediate indication of a condensation problem. If ignored this can lead to a deterioration in the decorative condition of the property, stained curtains, decay in window frames and the appearance of moulds on the surface of wallpapers and paints in poorly ventilated areas. Condensation can also occur under suspended floors and in roof voids, greatly increasing the chances of fungal decay.
The development of mould growth is the most common tell-tale sign that is frequently associated with condensation. It can lead to staining, damage to wallpaper, wall surfaces, window frames, furniture and clothing. The appearance of mould may be black, white, yellow or green in colour, depending on the specific type of mould
and the surface on which it grows.
Moulds are hydrophilic fungi in that they require high levels of moisture. Capillary held dampness (such as that originating through rising dampness) is not sufficient to cause mould growth. The mould requires free moisture on the surfaces to germinate and grow.
Tiny spores produced by the mould and the higher numbers of dust mites due to the moist conditions can increase the risk of asthma and respiratory illnesses in some people.
In the short-term you should wipe off the condensed water from windows and sills every morning during the condensation season. Wring out the cloth into a sink rather than drying out on a radiator.
Maintaining a reasonable balance between heating, ventilation and insulation can reduce excessive condensation. However, a review of lifestyle and occupation of the property is often necessary.
MOULD CLEANING
Regular cleaning away of mould is vital. To remove mould, wipe down walls and window frames with a preparatory mouldicide or fungicidal wash (one which carries a Health and Safety Executive approval number). Spray containers of mouldicide can be obtained from chemists and retailers and mould kits can be obtained from specialist suppliers. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions precisely which will provide longer term prevention.
TIPS TO CIRCULATE THE AIR
Allow space for the air to circulate in and around your furniture:
◗ Open doors to ventilate cupboards and wardrobes
◗ Leave space between the backs of wardrobes and the wall. Where possible, position wardrobes and furniture against internal walls i.e. walls which have a room on both sides rather than external walls
◗ Avoid overfilling wardrobes and cupboards as it restricts air circulation
◗ To reduce the risk of mildew on clothes and other stored items, allow air to circulate round them by removing ‘false’ wardrobe backs or drilling breather holes in them. You can place furniture on blocks
to allow air to circulate beneath
CONDENSATION UNITS
There are different types of units that Maljon offer, but the main two we offer are the Nuaire Dri-Eco-Heat-HCS Positive Input Ventilation Unit and the Nuaire Flatmaster 2000.
The DRI-ECO-HEAT-HCS and Flatmaster 2000 both offer a ventilation solution for the whole property, using the tried and tested Positive Input Ventilation (PIV) principle, where fresh, filtered air is introduced into the home at a continuous rate, encouraging movement of air from inside to outside.
PREVENTING WOOD ROT & PESTS
Accounting for roughly 70% of reported damp problems in domestic dwellings, condensation can also contribute to wood boring insect infestations and fungal decay outbreaks.
Condensation can often be attributed to poor balance between heating and ventilation. This results in a rise in relative humidity.
A family of 4 can produce up to 10 litres of water vapour every day, which can result from the use of tumble dryers, the act of drying wet clothes on radiators, showers and bath use, cooking, and even normal respiration.