What is condensation?
Condensation is the transformation of water vapour into liquid. The process is the opposite of evaporation, in which liquid water turns into a vapour. When moisture in the air comes into touch with a cold surface, like a window, it condenses (creates liquid water droplets). We all occasionally get condensation on our windows, but if it goes away soon, this isn’t usually an issue.
Issues arise if the water accumulates to the point that it begins to cause damage. Additionally, you might not see it until the wallpaper starts to peel or black mould begins to form if it’s accumulating elsewhere other than on the window. Condensation is more likely to occur in areas of the house that are colder than the rest of it, such as exposed corners or spaces where the insulation is missing, and where the air can’t move around freely.
How to stop condensation
The key to stopping condensation is quite a simple one – ensure there’s an escape for moisture in your home.
Condensation can happen in any house, whether it’s a small flat or a castle. It can be a major headache and in addition to causing damage to furniture and clothing, it can also set off health issues like asthma. It’s best to address the issue of condensation as soon as you see it vs waiting for it to further develop into dampness.
So how can you eliminate condensation?
- Keep moisture in your home to a minimum by keeping lids on pots when cooking, drying items outside when possible, and, if you use a tumble dryer, ensuring that it is vented to the outside.
- Use an extractor fan while you are cooking, taking a shower, or taking a bath and leave any window vents open. Ensure no vents are blocked off to ensure that the damp air is expelled from the house.
- Allow spaces between furniture and the wall so that air may flow.
- Avoid having cold areas; for instance, if there is a gap between the insulation in your wall and loft, attempt to reduce the gap since this can encourage condensation and perhaps even mould.
- A new outdoor vent in a troublesome location or an additional extractor fan could help resolve a condensation problem.
- In addition, if you’re hiring a professional to install insulation, draught-proofing, new windows, or doors, ask them what they’ve done to ensure that ventilation will still be adequate.
What causes condensation on windows?
We can’t see the numerous small water droplets in the air surrounding us. As humidity increases, so does the concentration of water, which increases the likelihood that it may “condense” on surfaces.
On a hot day, picture an iced glass of water that appears to be perspiring. This happens as a result of the moisture in warm air hitting the glass’ cool surface.
The molecules in warm air are widely spaced apart, which “retains” the moisture, whereas the molecules in chilly air are closer together. The molecules combine into a liquid when they are sufficiently close to one another. This is referred to as the “dew point.”
How to stop condensation on windows
Over the past thirty years, homes have significantly improved their energy efficiency, which has led to many of them becoming sealed structures that retain moisture.
Despite improving at storing heat, we have eliminated natural ventilation from homes.
Condensation on windows can be permanently removed by:
- better ventilation
- lowering the moisture
- installing windows with double- or triple-glazing
How to stop condensation on walls
Fixing condensation on walls frequently involves making a few easy lifestyle adjustments that improve the home’s air ventilation and circulation. Here are a few simple things to try:
- Try to open the windows as often as you can.
- Make sure the vents or air bricks in your home are clear.
- If it’s possible, dry your items outside.
- Utilise extractor fans in the bathroom and kitchen.
- To allow for circulation, try to leave at least a 100mm space between furniture and the wall.
Seek expert help
If you’re concerned about condensation in your property or have already found signs of mould or damage, it’s important to speak to the experts. At Matheson Damp Services, we’re on hand to help with all of your damp needs. We offer damp surveys in Scotland. Read more about mould and condensation here.