Keeping your home free from condensation

Condensation is essential moisture in the air.  There is always moisture in the air and you cannot always see it.  Everyday things like, cooking, washing, drying clothes and bathing produce more moisture which may lead to damp and mould if not managed daily.

Excess moisture in the home usually settles on cold surfaces, such as windows or places where there is little air movement.  It moves about your home and will settle in any room in your home, where it finds a cold place to condense, such as a bedroom or behind a wardrobe, not necessarily the ones where the moisture was produced.  If surfaces are left wet, water droplets form soaking into walls, woodwork, carpet and your belongings.  Mould will grow giving off an unpleasant smell and the spores of mould are risk to health, especially those living with respiratory problems such as asthma.

By taking simple steps everyday, you can help prevent condensation, damp and mould becoming a problem in your home.

• Keep bathroom and kitchen windows open when in use to allow steam to escape.  Keep bathroom and kitchen doors closed to prevent moisture moving to other rooms  If you have an extractor fan, use it when cooking or bathing, to help clear moisture.  Don’t block air vents.  Keep furniture away from walls to allow air to circulate.
• Try low level heating throughout the day rather than quick blasts.  Adjust thermostats to control your heating.
• Mop up any condensation or moisture everyday from windows and surfaces.  Put lids on saucepans when cooking.  Line dry clothes outside or use a clothes horse than over a radiator.

The main risk to any property in periods of cold weather is water damage due to burst pipes. Reduce the risk of pipes freezing by ensuring that you have enough gas or oil to heat the property.

If you are going to be away from your home during a period of bad weather, think about giving a spare key to a friend, family member or neighbour who can keep an eye on the property if the weather takes a change for the worse.