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Condensation and Mould
Condensation occurs in most homes at some point or another, but too much can lead to an unsightly and unhealthy mould problem. So how do you prevent condensation and mould from becoming a problem? Read on to learn how.
What is Condensation?
Everyday tasks in the home such as cooking, washing and drying clothes, bathing, and even breathing all cause moisture to be released into the air. The air can only hold a certain amount of moisture at any one time. The warmer it is, the more moisture the air can hold. If the air is cooled by coming into contact with a cold surface such as a window, mirror, or wall, the moisture in the air turns into water droplets. This is condensation. Every home has condensation at some point, and it most commonly occurs at time when lots of steam or moisture is being produced. Think of when you have a hot shower and the mirror is all fogged up. This is the perfect example of condensation. If your home seems to always have condensation, you may suffer from mould growth as well.
What is Mould?
Mould is a type of fungus that grows when the following conditions occur: indoor humidity levels are eighty percent or more; moisture is present from condensation; and there is food for it to grow (such as ingredients in paint). Mould cannot grow if dry air is circulating throughout the home, so proper ventilation will prevent mould.
Preventing Condensation and Mould
The best thing for preventing both condensation and mould is to ensure that the home is well ventilated to get rid of excess moisture. An exhaust fan in the bathroom that is ventilated to the outside of the home (not the roof space), will remove the steam that is generated by the bath or shower. Use the exhaust fan or rangehood in the kitchen to stop moisture from cooking turning into condensation. Use the dryer as little as possible – dry clothes outdoors whenever practical.
Keep the windows of your home open a little – this will help with air circulation, removing moisture laden air. Ensure that cupboards and wardrobes are not too full. If they are, air will not be able to circulate properly. To get rid of condensation that has formed over, cross ventilate the home. This is done simply by opening a window on either side of the house to allow air to flow through. Do this for at least thirty minutes a day.
Insulation is also very useful as it will warm the home. Combine insulation with heating and draught proofing.
Treating Mould
If you already have mould in your home, you will need to treat it. Not only is it unsightly but it can also be a health hazard. Use products that are specifically designed to treat and kill mould. Dry clean any mildewed clothes and steam clean mouldy carpets.
An easy way to remove mould yourself is to wash the walls and ceilings with water to remove as much of the mould as possible. Then, wash the mould with a solution of one part bleach (that contains sodium hypochlorite) to three parts clean water. Change cleaning cloths frequently as dirty cloths will spread mould. You may need to repeat the bleach treatment.
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Related Categories
Bathroom
Damp Proofing
Insulation
Windows