Condensation

What is it?

Condensation takes place on the water vapour in warm air hits a cooler surface and turns from a gas to liquid. In order for this process to take place, the atmosphere must be fully saturated.

Condensation can occur with a range of activities:

• Boiling the kettle
• Washing, drying and ironing clothes
• Oil/gas heaters
• Taking a bath or shower

Most houses fall victim to small amounts of condensation every now and then, but high levels can be a major problem during cooler periods and in properties over a certain age.

If materials in the property become badly affected by condensation they can become damp and mould can begin to grow. The mould that usually grows in these conditions is the black spot mould (Aspergillus Niger).

How can condensation be cured?

Resolving major condensation problems can be a tough task, because it involved correcting the temperature, humidity and ventilation of the property. Also water in the air is usually unaivoidable.

We can fit a full home ventilation system that will reduce the condensation in your home, alternative we can fit additional passyfier vents.

Reducing the Humidity

• Keep bathroom and kitchen doors closed when they are not in use.
• Dry clothes outdoors and use a vent when using a tumble dryer.
• Try not to use heating systems that produce water vapour.
• Try not to use heating that produces water vapour such as bottled gas.

Removing the humid air

• When in kitchen or bathroom open a window or use an extractor fan.
• Keep windows open and air circulating.
• Keep large furniture away from the exterior walls.
• Check any blocked up chimneys, making sure there is enough ventilation.
• Make sure any cellars and sub floor areas well ventilated.
• Think about using a dehumidifier where excessive problems are.

Keeping the moisture in the air

• Do not allow any room to stay cold for long periods.
• Make sure your home is well insulated.
• Typically cold walls can be lined with an insulating material.
• Cavity wall insulation can be expensive, but will give better condensation prevention.
• Seal any gaps between floor boards or lay thick underlay.
• Lagging pipes with foam tubes or wrapping them will help prevent condensation on pipes.

How are the after effects treated?

The first thing to do is do all you can to cure and reduce condensation by following the information given and any damp proofing work you need to have done as soon as possible to prevent the problem presiding and causing further damage to your property and health. Treat mould areas affected with fungicide cleaner or neat house hold bleach and have it checked for plaster damage.

Where condensation is unavoidable as in the bathroom, kitchens and bedrooms while sleeping keep area well ventilated and use suitable wall covering i.e. washable wallpaper.