Causes of Damp and Mould

Causes of Damp and Mould

Did you know that condensation is scarcely a building fault and is actually caused by how we live inside our homes?

Mundane tasks such as washing/drying clothes, taking a bath or shower, cooking and boiling kettles can create up to 21 pints of moisture per day for a two-person household!

This moist warm air will move around your property until it locates a cold spot where it will deposit condensation (usually on windows, colder areas of the walls or anywhere where air flow is restricted). Unfortunately, if the condensation persists it will lead to growth of black mould on the damp areas.

How can you reduce condensation?

Here are some helpful tips on controlling moisture in your property: -

1)    Keep your heating on low in all areas of your house
2)    Wipe down condensation that settles on the windows daily 
3)    Allow constant ventilation by opening windows and using a high setting on your extractor fan in the bathroom and kitchen
4)    Avoid drying washing within the property unless using a tumble dryer or heated clothes airer 
5)    Keep bathroom door shut during and for a short while after a shower or bath 
6)    Avoid putting large furniture on cold (usually north facing) walls and leave a 2–4-inch gap to allow circulation behind it

What can be done if mould does start to build up…

To avoid mould spreading and creating any further damage to the property it must be treated as soon as possible. The best way of doing this would be by cleaning the affected area with a suitable fungicidal wash. Do NOT use washing up liquid, despite some advice online suggesting this will prevent condensation it only encourages the moisture to find other locations to condensate. If the issue persists, consider getting a dehumidifier and/or anti mould paint.