Dealing with damp, mould, and condensation this winter

Winter is here. With it, comes persistent challenges of dampness and mould within properties. Recognising the heightened prevalence of these issues in our region, particularly in Kent and East Sussex, Love Living Homes is committed to providing you with a comprehensive guide on effectively managing and preventing these concerns during the colder months.

We’ve been working hard over the past few months to make sure we’re in the strongest possible position to help residents facing problems with damp, mould, and condensation this winter.

If your house is within its defects period or you are renting a LLH home…

It’s important that you let us know if you have any issues with damp, mould, or condensation in your home as soon as you are aware. Please call us on 01892 501480 or email us via info@tch.org.uk

The demand for support is expected to be high through the winter so we’ve set up a system to prioritise urgent cases and have a dedicated damp and mould repairs team in place.

About condensation & mould

Mould grows on damp surfaces, and, in many cases, it’s caused by condensation.

Condensation occurs when moist warm air meets a cold surface. This mostly happens during cold weather and can cause mould and dampness to accumulate where there’s limited airflow, for example in the corners of a room.

Condensation in your home can be managed to stop it becoming a problem – it’s less likely to occur in well-ventilated and warm homes. Keeping condensation to a minimum in the home will help reduce the risk of dampness and mould growth.

Our tips and advice: Reducing damp, mould, or condensation

Condensation is natural in everyone’s homes, especially as we try to eliminate draughts and save money on heating bills. There are lots of things that can help keep condensation to a minimum:

Ventilation is key:

Ensure proper ventilation by regularly opening windows, especially after activities like cooking or showering. Consider using extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms to reduce moisture build-up. Where windows have them, leaving trickle vents open will help to ventilate rooms.

Use dehumidifiers and slow the spread of moisture

Employ dehumidifiers in particularly damp areas to reduce excess moisture in the air. Empty and clean them regularly to ensure optimal efficiency. Additionally, closing kitchen or bathroom doors during and after cooking or showering will help stop moist air from spreading around your home.

Address leaks promptly:

Repair any leaks in roofs, walls, or plumbing promptly. Even minor leaks can contribute to dampness over time.

Insulate your home:

Proper insulation not only helps maintain a comfortable temperature but also prevents condensation. Consider insulating walls, floors, and roofs.

Maintain consistent heating:

Keep your home adequately heated, maintaining a consistent temperature. Cold surfaces are more prone to condensation, which can contribute to damp and mould growth.

Dry clothes outside:

If possible, dry your clothes outdoors instead of indoors. If using a tumble dryer, ensure it is vented outside to prevent excess moisture build-up.

Monitor humidity levels:

Keep an eye on indoor humidity levels. Aim for a relative humidity of around 40-60%. Hygrometers are handy devices to measure humidity.

Clean and ventilate appliances:

Regularly clean and ventilate appliances that generate moisture, such as stoves, ovens, and clothes dryers. Ensure they are properly vented to the outside.

Use mould-resistant products:

Consider using mould-resistant paint and materials, especially in areas prone to dampness, such as bathrooms and kitchens. If condensation does form on surfaces, such as windowsills, wiping them down daily will help prevent mould growth. Where mould does start to appear, it can be treated with anti-fungal products to help prevent it from spreading.

Keep furniture away from walls:

Position furniture away from exterior walls to allow air circulation. This helps prevent condensation on the walls.

Regular maintenance checks:

Conduct regular checks of your property for signs of leaks, dampness, or mould. Early detection allows for timely intervention and prevention.

By incorporating these practices into your home maintenance routine, you can significantly reduce the risk of mould and damp issues.

Other easy daily changes to make a difference

• Putting lids on pans when cooking
• Putting cold water in first when running a bath
• Keeping cupboards and wardrobes free from clutter to allow the air to circulate.