Preventing condensation

Dampness and condensation can be easily confused. Where dampness is caused by water penetration through your home, repair work can usually get rid of the problem. However, often the main cause of mould growth is condensation within the home.

Condensation occurs when warm air meets a cold surface. Water is formed at the point of contact with the cold surface, just as a bathroom mirror steams up when you have a hot bath. You can reduce the problems caused by condensation and dampness by following the advice below.

• Never block air bricks or vents in your walls, door or windows. If you have a gas boiler in your home, vents may provide oxygen for the efficient operation of your heating system, therefore it is dangerous to block off these vents.
• When cooking, keep the kitchen door closed but open a window to allow steam to escape. If you have no windows the extractor fan should be left to run for a while.
• Reduce the amount of moisture in the air by not drying clothes directly on radiators or storage heaters.
• Do not allow kettles and pans to boil for longer than necessary.
• If you have an extractor fan, please use it.
• Avoid using portable gas heaters as they produce high levels of water vapour.