Yes, its that time of year again and
we have already had our first phone call from a tenant saying they have a
“mould problem”. This is something we
come across every year and we at this time every year we contact every tenant
with hints and tips on how to minimise the problem. If condensation is left unchecked it can
damage the plaster thereby leading to redecoration being necessary with special
paints.
In most cases this problem is caused
by condensation and not damp and is usually a result of not opening windows
or turning extractors on whilst washing or cooking and therefore no fresh air is getting in.
Condensation is one of the most
common problems in houses and flats and can usually be minimised relatively
easily. Condensation occurs when warm moist air meets a cold surface. The water
in the air then either settles as water droplets on the surface (as it does on
windows for example), or, if the surface is absorbent, it soaks into the
surface. In the latter case condensation is often not noticed unless or until
mould appears. Condensation can be prevented or reduced in the property by
controlling the excess moisture in the following ways:
•
Close kitchen and bathroom doors to
prevent steam going into other, colder, rooms.
•
Open the kitchen or bathroom windows (if
applicable) when cooking or washing.
•
Open windows in other rooms to allow
a change of air.
•
Keep trickle vents open (these are
small devices on new windows which can be opened without affecting the security
to your property). These are worth
hovering on a regular basis as well.
•
Curtains and blinds should be kept
open during the day as this will help to minimize the condensation in the
property.
•
Wipe down surfaces where moisture
settles to prevent mould forming.
•
Use the extractor fans if supplied in the property (do
not isolate fans in bathrooms).
Consider changing fans to ones that are triggered by excessive moisture
in the area and do not switch off until this is bought down to an acceptable
level.
·
Dry clothes outside if possible.
·
Do not hang wet clothes over
radiators or in rooms without suitable ventilation.
•
Ensure that tumble driers vent to the
outside.
•
Maintain a low background heat – it
is advised that the property thermostat is kept at a minimum of 13 degrees
during cold periods to prevent the hot and cold effect which causes
condensation.
•
Ensure that the insulation in the
loft is at a good level. This can
prevent cold spots forming where condensation will collect.
When you do decide to redecorate your
property there are some really effective paints on the market now which help to
control condensation and mould in areas where you know there could be a
problem. We would strongly recommend you
consider this.
We always remind new and existing
tenants on how to prevent and deal with condensation and would recommend that
you do the same. For more useful tips,
follow our blog.
