WHAT IS CONDENSATION?
Condensation happens in almost every property around the world, but it is also an underestimated cause of water damage, and is certainly the most common cause of excess moisture and black mould in buildings. Thankfully, there are various condensation treatments that can deal with the problem no matter how severe it gets.
WHAT CAUSES CONDENSATION?
Condensation moisture in the air can come from a variety of sources within your property. Water vapour is produced in relatively large quantities from normal day-to-day activities which inevitably can lead to condensation in the property. For example, a five person household puts about 10 litres of water into the air every day.
Examples include:
- Breathing (asleep) 0.3 litres
- Breathing (awake) 0.85 litres
- Cooking 3 litres
- Personal washing 1.0 litres
- Washing and drying clothes 5.5 litres
- Heating – especially paraffin and fuel-less gas heaters
Moisture can also be drawn from the structure of the building into the internal air; from below the floor or through the walls/ceilings
The actions that cause condensation are often essential to everyday living and therefore unavoidable, however, improved air ventilation can minimise the impact condensation has on a property.
COMMON SIGNS OF CONDENSATION
The common signs of condensation include:
- Water collecting on the inside of windows or on the window sill
- Water collecting on non-absorbent surfaces like tiles
- Black mould growth on walls and skirting
- Rotting and peeling of wall paper
- Mould growing on clothes and other fabrics
- A strong musty smell
WHY IS CONDENSATION A PROBLEM?
Without ventilation, condensation often results in unhealthy living conditions with black mould growth, peeling decorations, damage to fabrics and unpleasant musty damp smells occurring within a property. At its most severe, condensation can even result in permanent damage to plaster and timber.
BLACK MOULD
Black mould growth is a common site where ventilation is poor and condensation problems are rife. Not only is it unsightly but it can make properties an unpleasant and potentially unhealthy place to live.
CONDENSATION ON WINDOWS
Condensation problems can affect any part of a property but the places it is most commonly noticed are around windows, particularly those with double glazing. This is the first warning sign that a condensation problem exists.
HOW IS CONDENSATION TREATED?
There are a number of ways to combat condensation. From simple maintenance tricks such as clearing air bricks or regularly opening windows to long-term mechanical solutions such as PIV Air Ventilation, Wise Property Care can offer the right help and advice for your property.
AIR VENTILATION
Without proper ventilation, condensation often results in black mould growth. Dampness from moisture settling can also result in peeling decorations, damage to fabrics and unpleasant smells. Find out how our ventilation units can help.
CONDENSATION TREATMENT
Condensation treatment can range from DIY efforts to improve ventilation to the installation of mechanical ventilation, but how do you know what your property needs? Click the button below to find out about the range of DIY and professional treatments available and when each is appropriate.
CONTACT THE CONDENSATION EXPERTS
If you suspect that you need condensation treatment in your property then call us today to arrange a condensation survey.
Alternatively, you can ask a question online using our contact form for help and advice from our condensation experts.
