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Condensation Control

Condensation Control

Biocraft offers control services and solutions for condensation and mould problems throughout Berkshire, Surrey, Hampshire and Oxfordshire.

Biocraft offers control services and solutions for condensation and mould problems throughout Berkshire, Surrey, Hampshire and Oxfordshire.

Condensation is usually caused by poor ventilation. It occurs when moist air comes into contact with a surface that’s below its dew point. The air cools and can no longer hold as much moisture, which condenses on the surface and forms condensation.

Condensation can be a problem in both new and old buildings. This is why adequate ventilation is essential for the wellbeing of the occupants and the fabric of the building. The most common signs of condensation include:

  • Streaming windows and condensation forming on windows
  • Condensation water pooling on window sills
  • Damp walls with no ‘tidemarks’
  • Damp and mould patches
  • Mould in corners of rooms
  • Mould behind furniture
  • Mildew on clothes and furnishings
  • Musty and damp smells
  • Mould in the corner of the lounge

When does condensation occur?

Condensation usually occurs between October and April when outside temperatures are lower than they are inside. Energy efficiency measures such as double glazing and draught proofing have increased the occurrence of condensation and black mould in modern homes.

Why does condensation occur?

Condensation occurs when moisture in the air forms water droplets on cold surfaces like windows or outside walls. The moisture comes from a number of sources within the home including cooking, bathing, breathing, washing and drying clothes.

What are the effects of condensation dampness?

Excessive condensation can lead to black mould growth, spoiling of decorations and damage to fabric items. Condensation and mould growth can also lead to unpleasant odours, further reducing the air quality.

Can dehumidifiers and anti-condensation paints help?

Dehumidifiers are frequently used for the control of condensation. Although they can provide relief, they should only be considered as a temporary measure. Dehumidifiers are costly to run and require frequent emptying. Along with anti-condensation paints, they just treat the effects of condensation and don’t remove the cause.

How to prevent condensation

Condensation occurs when your heating, ventilation and insulation systems are out of balance. The key to controlling condensation is to address one or more of these issues. There are a number of ways you can prevent condensation from forming including:

  • Dry clothes outside or in a tumble dryer. If you do dry clothes indoors, make sure the room is well ventilated or use a dehumidifier.
  • Ventilate bathrooms and shower rooms externally during and after use and keep the door closed while bathing.
  • Ventilate the property by opening windows, keeping ventilation strips on windows open and using extract fans.
  • Maintain an even temperature within the building. Avoid periods of very high or very low temperature.
  • Use an extractor fan when cooking or bathing.
  • Consider making building improvements to reduce condensation problems.
  • Improve insulation of lofts and cold walls.
  • Reposition or upgrade radiators in the cold areas.
  • Upgrade existing ventilation fans with run-on timers or humidistat controls.
  • Add ventilation strips to double glazed windows.
  • Fit passive or mechanical ventilation to the kitchen, bathroom and utility room.
  • Fit whole home ventilation systems to remedy severe condensation.

Adequate ventilation can be maintained in a property through the use of various types of ventilation systems including passive, extraction and positive input systems. Biocraft can specify and install all types of home ventilation system to prevent condensation, including the award-winning PIV condensation system.

 

Based in Reading, Berkshire, Biocraft has been offering condensation control services throughout Berkshire, Hampshire, Surrey and Oxfordshire for more than 18 years. We’re members of the Property Care Association (PCA), the Federation of Master Builders and Construction Line. We’re also an approved installer of Nuaire home ventilation products and are Bpec qualified for the installation of domestic ventilation equipment.

 

For a specialist condensation control survey or further advice on condensation and mould problems, please call 0800 781 8358 or email [email protected].

Get in touch with us

For further information get in touch with Biocraft:

For a specialist condensation control survey or further advice on condensation and mould problems, please call 0800 781 8358 or email [email protected].

Get in touch

For more information telephone us on 0800 781 8358 or email us below: