When moisture in the air comes into contact with a colder surface, like a wall or window, the warm air is unable to hold the same amount of moisture and the water is released onto the colder surface, creating tiny droplets of water to appear, which is more commonly referred to as condensation.
Some of the telltale effects of condensation include water droplets on windows or walls, decaying window frames, particularly stained and wet corners. Condensation causes damp walls and peeling wallpaper, musty and damp smells. Black mould on walls, curtains, carpets, bathroom tiles and window sills are also common and water droplets on felt and timber in the loft can lead to rot.
Yes. Drying clothes, using a tumble dryer, showering, bathing, cooking and even breathing can create condensation. However, all of these everyday factors are impossible to escape, so our homes need proper ventilation to be equipped to handle them.
The right ventilation solution, expertly installed, can help prevent condensation by either introducing filtered air into the home or by removing moisture-heavy air from the home.
Left unchecked, condensation can cause damp and mould problems that could give you a runny nose, sore throat or a cough. Rhinitis, sinusitis, asthma and even serious respiratory issues are also linked to condensation. Unseen mould growth behind wall linings and external cladding can be a health risk to occupants, especially the young or elderly. Detection and rectification can be difficult as well as costly due to the unseen nature of this problem.
Wiping down windows and window sills isn’t a complete solution. To vent condensation, your home needs to have adequate air flow and be kept at a good temperature. When a room gets to a certain temperature, humidity gathers creating moisture in the air. If this excess moisture is not ventilated it will cause condensation. To naturally ventilate your property you can open the windows, however you don't want to leave your windows open all day for security and weather reasons. That is why a ventilation solution is so important.
Dehumidifiers may seem like an easy answer, but they do have limitations. They only deal with one room and blow out warm air, drying out the air. Whilst this maybe a perk in the winter, during the summer it could result in excess, overbearing heat. You’ll also find your energy costs might go up with a dehumidifier as they require a lot of energy all of the time.
