Condensation and mould is something of a scourge in the modern home, and it can be difficult to get rid of. If your home suffers from condensation and its effects, then it's well worth understanding how it occurs so that you can take steps to eliminate its causes.
What is Condensation and Mould?
The atmosphere around us always contains a certain level of moisture held in the form of water vapour. This can vary according to the air temperature; however, cool air holds less moisture than warm air. However, as with anything containing water there's a limit to the amount which can be held. When the atmosphere can hold no more water vapour it is said to have reached saturation point.
This can happen when moist, warm air comes into contact with the glass of a window on a cold day. The excess vapour then condenses into tiny water droplets. These droplets may at first appear as a fine mist on cold smooth surfaces such as windows, but as more moisture accumulates these minute droplets may merge into trickles of water.
Common Causes of Condensation and Mould
We are ourselves a major cause of atmospheric moisture. Our breath is laden with moisture and our sweat evaporates. We can easily produce a litre and a half of water each day. Other causes of moisture production can be found in the domestic routine; bathing, washing and drying clothes, and cooking can produce many litres of water daily. This water is released into the atmosphere until it reaches saturation point.
The drive towards warmer, better insulated and draught proof homes has led to houses which are far more airtight than they once were. This results in poor levels of ventilation which in itself can create condensation. Inadequate insulation and heating will also add to the problem.
How to Avoid Condensation and Mould
You can help to reduce the level of condensation and mould in your home by developing good habits. Keep the doors into steamy areas such as kitchens and bathrooms closed but windows in these rooms open, as much as conveniently possible so that moisture laden air can be vented outside rather than find its way into other parts of the house. Make sure bathrooms are warm prior to use. Keep bedrooms ventilated at night. Avoid drying clothes inside on radiators, drying racks or using un-vented tumble driers.
Products to Help with Condensation and Mould
For homes that have already fallen victim to the build-up of black mould, we offer a variety of cleaners and paints to remove and prevent the appearance of mould.
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