In a space of a day winter seems to have appeared and the usual household problems return. What are we referring to? Well, that would be the old mould and condensation.
It affects us all, but generally it’s a bigger problem for landlords and letting agents getting call from tenants highlighting the issue.
Generally condensation in residential property is caused by warm moist air generated in areas like kitchens and bathrooms penetrating colder parts of the building. It can vary in severity from a small patch of mould or discoloured wallpaper behind cupboards. More serious amounts of mould growth can be across walls, inside wardrobes, furnishings, carpets and basements.
Mould has been identified as the source of many health problems, including infections, asthma, allergies and sinusitis. Moulds produce allergens, irritants, and in some cases, toxins that may cause reactions in humans, as well as causing damage to the property.
Some useful hints and tips to combat mould and condensation:
- Always wipe down wet surfaces, windows and windowsills. Try to use a disposable cloth which can be thrown away after use!
- Maintain a constant interior temperature for the property.
- When drying clothes if the weather doesn’t permit to hang washing outside. Clothes should be hung in the bathroom with the door closed and window slightly ajar for ventilation. Never dry your washing on radiators as this will add to moisture already in the air.
- Ensure that all extractor fans are working efficiently. Tenants will leave tend to leave noisy extractors turned off (unless they’re connected to the light switch).
- Tumble dryers should be ventilated to the outside unless you have a new condensing type.
- When cooking try to ventilate your kitchen either by opening a window slightly or using the extractor fan. Ventilate should continue for about 30 minutes after use for both kitchens and bathrooms.
- Daily use of a de-humidifier will be beneficial if your property is prone to condensation. These come in all shapes and sizes, but cost very little to run and draw out the excess moisture from the air. This will help to keep the condensation under control.