How to Spot and Prevent Condensation Damage

Condensation can affect your home in several ways, doing more than just damaging windows. The dampness caused by condensation is something that bothers a number of UK households, and it can lead to serious issues including problems that damage both your property and your own personal health. It has always been a known problem since the beginning of double glazing and single glazing.

A home that is not properly heated and insulated is more at risk of condensation damage. Given that condensation is the main reason that dampness occurs, it’s worth knowing how to spot the signs of condensation and how to prevent it.

Key Signs Your Home Has Condensation 

Water Gathers on Windows

One of the first and most obvious signs of condensation is when water streams across windows. If you find excess water gathering on the windows or dripping down, then this is an indication that condensation problems are developing. Water on the windows is something that is going to happen every so often, but if it happens too much and you have too much moisture on your windows, this is a sign that there is a more serious problem with your air ventilation at play.

Paint and Wallpaper Peels

You may feel that wallpaper peeling is a sign of a DIY blunder, but this could be a sign that condensation and dampness developing in walls. If your walls have been damaged by condensation, the paper and plaster that is applied to them will be unable to settle properly and it can begin to peel away.

Mould Grows on Window Frames and Ceilings

One of the most obvious – not to mention unpleasant – signs of problems with condensation and ventilation is when mould grows between window frames. When condensation forms, it gives mould the ideal environment to grow in by providing moisture. In particular, black mould really damages the overall look and appeal of property. It also ruins window frames and furniture. Black mould also damages personal health. Continued exposure to black mould is connected to all manner of respiratory problems.

Mould Growing and Furnishings and Fabrics

Not only does mould grow on the walls, ceilings, and window frames, but it is also able to grow on clothes, shoes, and furnishings. Mould will grow on items near walls and away from direct sunlight.

Unpleasant Musty Smells

Mould and damp have something of a “musty” odour to them that can ruin how property feels and the impressions it makes on both residents and guests. Mould – and the decay caused by it – generally has a potent distinctive smell that can be noticed upon entering a room. If you notice this kind of smell in hour home then it is a sign that you’ve got condensation problems.

Preventing Condensation and Condensation Damage

Insulation

Having an insulated home helps when tackling issues like condensation and dampness. Wall insulation, double glazing, and draft proofing help reduce the amount of heat lost from the home. Read our guide to draught proofing your home and save energy here. Having energy efficient, properly installed windows helps to keep the temperature in your property high which helps to reduce the growth of condensation and mould.

Increase Ventilation

If your home suffers from damp, condensation, or mould, then one of the best things you can do is improve the indoor ventilation. Try regularly opening windows to let air flow freely into your house and allow moist air to escape before it damages anything. It’s wise to keep windows open when doing things that are known to create excess moisture like bathing, showering, and cooking. You shouldn’t draught proof kitchens and bathrooms if you have bad condensation problems. Ventilation systems like extractor fans are a big help when it comes to reducing condensation in the house.

Reduce Moisture Levels

Everyday home activities can produce moisture into the air that can’t be avoided. The more people there are in the house, the more moisture is going to be released into the home. Reducing the amount of moisture in the air helps to tackle the issue of condensation dampness. Small changes like having a tumble drier vented outside and hanging washing on an outside line rather than drying it indoors really helps. If you’ve got a condensation dampness problem it’s never a good thing to dry clothes indoors and over radiators. The best way to reduce moisture levels in your home is opening windows when creating steam through cooking and bathing and keeping the door that connects those rooms to other rooms closed.

Heating

It helps to keep the temperature inside your property reasonably consistent and regularly keep the home heated to warm temperatures. This prevents major contrasts in temperature that allow for condensation to develop. Having a well-maintained, warm home creates an environment that mould has trouble developing in.