Reducing condensation

• On windows where moisture droplets will form.
• Around window frames where black mould will grow.
• On outside walls where black mould will grow.
• On all cold surfaces - even furniture and clothes - as it does not discriminate.

What can be done about condensation?

To combat condensation you need to balance four factors:

Heating

Cold areas in your home should be avoided, as these are where condensation can occur, so whole home heating is best. Heating systems and controls should be used efficiently. This will save you money, and make you more comfortable.

Insulation

A loft should be insulated when you have one. This will cut heating bills, and keep your home warmer for longer. Windows, external doors and kitchen and bathroom doors should be draught proofed. This stops draughts, which make your home cold, and prevents moisture escaping elsewhere in the home. Walls can be insulated by filling the cavity with insulation material, or by dry lining with insulation board to warm up cold surfaces. Double-glazing can be fitted - but there most still be adequate ventilation of the room.

Ventilation

Humidstat extract fans fitted in the kitchen and bathroom will automatically get rid of moisture where it is produced. Windows opened during cooking or after a bath will let out moisture, but remember to close them again. Draught-free, permanent vents in all rooms should be provided to let out moisture. Remember - blocking up air-bricks, flues or ventilators can be dangerous if you use certain types of heaters.

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Moisture Reduction

Drying clothes indoors produces a lot of moisture, so always dry outside if possible. If you have to dry clothes indoors, use the bathroom with its window open and door shut. Portable gas or paraffin heaters produce a lot of moisture. 1 pint of paraffin produces 1 pint of water when it burns. If you use these heaters you will need a lot more ventilation. These kinds of heaters are also often banned by landlords for safety reasons.

Some of these measures can be taken by you at very little cost. Condensation can be reduced, and often cured. If the points above are followed, condensation should not be a persistent problem in your home. However, you must remember that a balance is needed between the four factors.

Ways you can reduce moisture in your home

Avoid using portable gas and paraffin heaters. Open windows in the kitchen and bathroom, or use extractor fans if you have them when you are cooking or having a bath or shower. Remember to close them afterwards.

Keep kitchen and bathroom doors closed to stop moisture moving around your home. Draught-proofing these doors will also help. Don't block vents or flues, as this can be dangerous. Covering boiling pans also helps and saves energy too.

Don't dry clothes indoors if at all possible. If you have to, open the window and close the door to the room. This also applies to cloths or towels used to mop-up moisture from windows. If you dry them indoors, the moisture is just re-circulated in your home. If you have a tumble-dryer, make sure it is vented to the outside if it is designed to be.

Keep radiators clear of furniture and other obstructions. This will make sure that the maximum amount of heat gets into the room, and allows air to circulate more easily. This is also a wise safety precaution.