Condensation is a common problem for many households, especially in the colder months, but there’s a very simple thing you can do to avoid it
One of the most irritating aspects of the cold weather, aside from summer now being a distant memory, is the condensation that builds up on our windows.
This occurs when the chilly external air meets the warmth of our cosy homes, leading to a collection of water droplets forming on the inside of our windows – particularly in bedrooms. Not only does this cause concern due to potential damp swelling on window sills, but it can also lead to mould growth – which can trigger a range of health issues, including asthma.
While there are various methods to eliminate mould, such as utilising tea tree oil, the optimal solution is to address the root cause to prevent its recurrence. According to Which?, poor ventilation in homes is one of the primary causes of condensation and subsequent mould. Condensation is triggered “when humid air meets cold surfaces like walls and windows,” making it more prevalent during the colder months.
As temperatures decrease, the “amount of moisture that the air can hold falls and the tiny drops of water form on the surface”. This issue is exacerbated in properties with inadequate ventilation, as the moist air generated by activities such as cooking, showering, and laundry drying has no escape route.
This typically occurs in the morning, in bedrooms, as the moisture from our breath leads to condensation on windows – with no means of escape.
Due to the likes of modern advancements such as double glazing, excess moisture levels inside buildings can soar – prompting a real need for effective ventilation to stave off unsightly condensation and mould. Fortuitously, combating this issue is quite straightforward, with mould prevention being just a window away.
Consumer champions Which? suggest on their website: “This can be as simple as remembering to open windows when you’re at home or, if you have windows that lock when partly open, leaving them like this more often will help.”
For those seeking a long-term fix, options include installing vents on window frames or incorporating roof ventilation tiles. Now, regularly airing out rooms might sound like a surefire way to jack up your heating bills, but not if you embrace the German technique known as ‘Stosslüften’.
By flinging open multiple windows briefly, creating a swift breeze, you can banish excess dampness in no time. Translated to ‘shock ventilation’ in English, this method advocates for short, sharp bursts of airing – as little as three minutes – rather than a day-long, heat-sapping window opening, to quickly whisk away any extra moisture.
