THREE ways to stop condensation on your windows causing mould

Condensation is a common occurrence in homes throughout winter, but ignoring this build-up of moisture on your windows could lead to bigger problems. As the temperature drops outside, the warmth of our homes can lead to excess moisture lurking on cold surfaces, creating the perfect environment for damp and mould. With household mould in its prime season, how can you stop condensation from causing these harmful spores to gather around your property?

Can black mould be caused by condensation?

Mould is a well-known household allergen that can appear in any part of the home that is humid, damp and dark.

The harmful spores of this musty bacteria can quickly multiply in areas where moisture and humidity are rife – leaving soggy windows particularly prone to black mould during the winter.

While condensation is often just a harmless side effect of the cold morning air and the warmth of your home colliding, it could be a sign of something more serious.

Broken seals on double glazing or inadequate heating could be worsening morning condensation, leaving your home more likely to experience a mould problem.

READ MORE: Why do my windows steam up on the inside? FIVE quick fixes

How do you get rid of mould caused by condensation?

Mould around windows is not the only place you could find these harmful spores if you’re experiencing severe condensation on your windows each morning.

Excess moisture dripping down your window panes is a good indication that your home is unbalanced in terms of the temperature and air circulation.

Mould will often appear in the corners of a room on skirting boards, walls and ceilings.

There are many ways to prevent this from happening during the winter, but the key is to start by balancing the temperature and ventilation of your home.

Consistently heat your home

Keeping your home warm through the winter may be a struggle this year as energy costs are set to rise.

Despite rising costs, it is often more cost-effective and better for your home to keep your heating on a lower temperature for longer periods in order to sustain a consistent warmth throughout your property.

Keeping surfaces at a regulated temperature will minimise condensation by warming up colder surfaces which will reduce the cooling of any moisture-laden air.

Avoid short bursts of heating as this will not work to increase the temperature of internal surfaces.

Increase ventilation

One of the most effective ways to reduce mould caused by condensation in the home is to take control of the levels of moisture lurking in your home.

Keeping lids on pans when cooking, opening windows or using extractor fans when bathing and keeping internal doors closed when steaming up a singular room, will all help to reduce moisture in the air.

Regularly ventilating your home will reduce excess moisture which contributes to mould growth and keep fresh air circulating around your home.

How to remove mould from your home

Removing mould from your home is essential to maintain good respiratory health and wellbeing through winter.

If you notice mould building up in your home, quickly clean it up using chlorine bleach to tackle the unpleasant spores.

Always wear a mask and gloves when in close contact with mould and use a stiff-bristled brush to scrub away the surface mould.

Wipe away with water and a clean cloth before leaving to dry.

Practice good ventilation and heat your home consistently to prevent a build-up of condensation-induced mould from reappearing.

source: express.co.uk