What is Condensation?

One of the most common causes of damp in buildings is condensation. Moisture is always present in the air, even if it can not be seen.

Warm air holds more moisture than cold air. When air is cooled it holds less moisture. If cooled far enough the air releases excess moisture and droplets of water are formed on surfaces. This is known as condensation. Examples of this are when you can see your breath in cold weather or in bathrooms when mirrors, cold taps or windows steam up and cause droplets of water.

In your home condensation is often seen on windows, which is more noticeable on a cold morning, on external walls or in places where air movement is restricted, such as in corners of rooms, behind items of furniture placed up against walls and even in wardrobes. Its presence is often indicated by the development of mould growth on walls and ceilings, and even furniture, clothes and other fabrics. It could also lead to the rotting of affected timbers such as wooden window frames.

Typical causes of condensation

Generation of too much water, lack of ventilation, inadequate heating, poor insulation.

How to help avoid condensation

Reduce the amount of water being produced by

Cooking

Cover pans

Keep kitchen doors closed but open kitchen windows

Use an extract fan

Bathing

Keep bathroom door closed but open bathroom windows

When filling the bath, run cold water first and then add hot water to greatly reduce the amount of steam

Use an extract fan

How One Call Services can help you in avoiding condensation?

We insulate lofts, fit positive ventilation units, passyfier vents, humidity tracking extract fans, standard bathroom/kitchen extract fans. We use dentolite sterilising solution concentrate and decorate problem areas with a Fungi Chek Emulsion.

Why not contact us and request a free visit from One Call Services to see what actions would be the best for your property.