When winter approaches, the temperature goes down and damp and condensation all too often becomes a feature of our homes. If left unchecked, condensation can result in unsightly patches of mold which can damage structures and surfaces and rot them away. Not only that, but damp can also cause respiratory problems. Luckily, condensation is a problem which can be rectified if you know which steps to take.
Home Condensation Problems
Condensation, arguably, is the most commonly seen form of damp I the home. Most of us have experienced it from time to time. It occurs because of too much water vapor in the air which then cannot escape. Condensation is caused by poor ventilation, insulation or heating inside your home. Usually, it only happens in the winter. Whenever the temperature cools down during the winter, the indoor air can’t hold all the water vapor and when it builds up, it forms droplets of water which then settle on surfaces which are cold, like windows, walls and mirrors. Usually, condensation forms in rooms with high levels of moisture like bathrooms and kitchens as well as in areas with poor air flow like inside closets and behind furnishings. Also, since we rarely open doors and windows during the winter, we lock the air in leaving moisture nowhere to go.
Reducing Moisture Indoors
As we’ve already established, condensation occurs because there is too much water vapor in the air, and when it hits cold surfaces it turns into water droplets. If we want to stop it from happening, we need to reduce the level of moisture inside the home.
When you’re cooking, keep lids on your pans and also ventilate the kitchen well by opening the window or installing a ventilation fan. Whenever you’re taking a shower or bath, make sure the room is well ventilated too so the steamy air can escape via a vent or window. Close the door as this will stop moisture from escaping around the home.
Dry Your Clothing Outdoors
It’s no wonder that we want to dry our wet clothing indoors during the winter, however this only leads to more moisture in the air and this contributes to your condensation problem. Try hanging washing outside as frequently as possible, even during the winter months, and whenever you use your tumble dryer, make sure it has been vented outdoors so moisture can escape.
Let the Air Circulate
You can reduce moisture in the air by regularly opening closets, cabinets and drawers to allow the air to circulate more freely. Avoid overfilling your cabinets and drawers and make sure there is a gap between the walls and furniture so air won’t get trapped.
Insulate Properly
You can stop damp from getting into your property by ensuring you have effective insulation. Seal any gaps and cracks in your structures and repair damage to roofing and gutters as soon as you spot a problem. You should also replace any outdated doors and windows with ones which have higher insulation protection.
Heat Your Home Properly
Heating your home more effectively reduces condensation indoors, so make sure that temperature levels stay fairly consistent, particularly in any room which you rarely use. You should use a heating thermostat as the best way to regulate this. Don’t use paraffin heaters as these produce even more condensation.
Install a Dehumidifier
One of the best ways to reduce excess moisture in the air is to install a dehumidifier. Whether your whole house is suffering from a condensation problem or simply one small area such as a basement or garage, an appropriate size of dehumidifier is a must-have in your home. It will effectively remove the excess water vapor from the air and prevent condensation from becoming a problem and causing problems with mold, mildew and structural damage.
Tackling the Problem
If you spot mold developing due to your condensation problem, it’s absolutely vital to tackle it immediately so it can be instantly removed. If allowed to take hold, mold is difficult to get rid of and can cause a host of health and structural issues. If you take these steps to reduce moisture inside your property, you’ll find your home is a more comfortable place to live this winter.
