Here at Sash Windows London, we get many questions about condensation and how to prevent it. So, I decided to write this article to share with you my top tips for preventing condensation in your home and on your windows.

Condensation can be an indication that there is excessive moisture in your home. However, do not fear, there are numerous things you can do to help tackle the problem of condensation and prevent it altogether. Read on to discover the causes on condensation, how to prevent it and what to do to keep mould and damp at bay.

What’s Bad About Condensation?

Condensation can have an enormous impact on your health, the lifespan of your windows and the standard of your home. Condensation is a good indication that the humidity inside your home is excessive, causing numerous health problems.

While a little bit of excess water might sound harmless enough, if condensation isn’t dealt with immediately it can encourage the growth of black mould to grow around the windows, walls and ceilings of your home. Not only does this make your home look unattractive, it can lead to numerous health issues including sinus problems, skin rashes and even bronchitis. So, if you suspect you have condensation in your home, read on to find out how to get rid of it and tackle the problem to protect the health of yourself and your family.

What Causes Condensation

Condensation occurs when warm air collides with cold surfaces, or if your home has an excess of humidity. Therefore, condensation is more common in winter, when windows are often left closed and your central heating comes on in the cooler hours of the day. In addition, numerous household activities, such as cooking, showering and drying clothes can increase the moisture inside of your home. When this moisture-packed air encounters a cold surface, such as your window, it causes condensation to form.

What Can be Done About Condensation?

If you have discovered condensation on your windows, there are numerous ways you can limit the effects by following a few simple steps. Below are my top tips for reducing condensation in your home, read on to find out more.

Ventilation is Key

When trying to rid your home of condensation, ventilation is key. Aim to open the windows throughout your home for a minimum of 20 minutes every day (even in winter). This is important as it allows damp air to escape and dry air to replace it. You can also keep windows open while you are cooking, taking a shower or drying clothes to allow for extra ventilation without spending a penny.

Make Use of Extractor Fans

Extractor fans are there for a reason, they help reduce excessive condensation that is produced while cooking or showering. An extractor fan will remove damp air before it has the chance to settle on surfaces and cause further problems. When cooking, avoid excess steam being released into the air by keeping lids on your saucepans and employing extractor fans.

Keep Doors Closed

Whenever you use the kitchen or bathroom, it is important to keep the doors closed. You may think this seems counterproductive but keeping doors shut allows rooms to release any moisture through open windows and prevents humidity spreading around your home.

Make Use of Dehumidifiers

I would suggest using a dehumidifier to reduce the humidity in your home. Dehumidifiers work by sucking air through a fan and removing the moisture, keeping your home dry and condensation-free. Invest in a couple and locate them in various rooms throughout your home for optimum effect. As winter sets in, you could move one into your bedroom to work while you sleep, as the heat from your breath during cold nights can condense on the windows and walls.

Keep Your Windows Clean

If you find condensation forming on your windows, be sure to keep your windows as dry as possible by wiping them down with a cloth or squeegee to stop the build-up of moisture while you tackle the problem using the suggestions above. For more information on cleaning your windows, click here.

Regular Heating

During the winter, it is important that your home maintains a regular temperature. This will help avoid condensation from forming on cold surfaces by ensuring your home is heated evenly. If there is a room in your home that you don’t use as often, keep the door closed and be sure to open the windows regularly to prevent damp from forming. To make heating easy, you can install thermostatically-controlled heater where necessary. The thermostats will help control heating, reduce condensation and help control costs. A steady heat in your home is one of the most effective ways to treat the build-up of condensation.

Final Words

Here at Sash Windows London, we know that condensation can be a big problem, which is why I wrote this article. I hope it has been helpful for you and that it has provided you some good suggestions for reducing the condensation in your home.

If you have any questions, or you would like more information, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us today. We would be more than happy to offer any advice you may need.