Condensation
It is a fact that warm air can hold more water as vapour than cool air. So condensation is cause when moisture laden air comes into contact with a cold surface- the air is cooled to a point where it can no longer hold its burden of water vapour.
At this point (Dewpoint) water begins to drop out of the air and it is seen as condensation on the surfaces.
At this point (Dewpoint) water begins to drop out of the air and it is seen as condensation on the surfaces.
Signs of Condensation
a) Condensation is a seasonal problem occurring during the colder months.
b) Water droplets form on cold impervious surfaces such as glass and paint.
c) Stains on wallpaper often unnoticed.
d) Developments of mould, usually black mould.
e) One should also be aware of the site of most water vapour produced in a kitchen may diffuse through the house into the cold bedroom, where it condenses on cool walls and leads to mould growth.
b) Water droplets form on cold impervious surfaces such as glass and paint.
c) Stains on wallpaper often unnoticed.
d) Developments of mould, usually black mould.
e) One should also be aware of the site of most water vapour produced in a kitchen may diffuse through the house into the cold bedroom, where it condenses on cool walls and leads to mould growth.
The Solutions
Improve Ventilation
This will disperse the internal moisture-laden air and replace it with drier air from outside.(Internal air is drier than internal air most of the year) Ventilation is achieved by:
a) Open a few windows
b) Installing air vents
c) Using extractor fans
a) Open a few windows
b) Installing air vents
c) Using extractor fans
Postitve Pressure
Install slow-speed fans set into the ceiling. This draws air into the roof space from outside through the eaves,and gently pushes it into the property.
This causes a slight internal positive pressure continually pushing out any moisture-laden air as it develops.
This causes a slight internal positive pressure continually pushing out any moisture-laden air as it develops.
Heating
Coupled with ventilation, a low-level background heat will ensure no rapid changes in the environment and will facilitate the warming of wall surfaces over a period reducing the risk of condensation.
Dehumidifiers
Remove systems in the house that generate excess water vapour, eg gas/ paraffin heaters, drying racks for clothes or hot air clothes drier used inside the home.
Insulate cold surfaces
Insulate cold surfaces
Mould Growth
About Mould Growth
Condensation is associated with mould growth, most visible as black spot mould. Mould spores are present in the atmosphere, at low levels. Should these spores land on a wet surface (condensation) under humid conditions, they will germinate and develop into heavy mould growth, releasing vast numbers of spores. Not only does this cause decorative spoiling, but in some cases, health issues. Black mould only flourishes on pure water associated with condensation.
Common mould poisoning symptoms for those without a respiratory condition include:
- wheezing
- coughing
- nose stuffiness
- itchy or red eyes
- itchy skin
- If you have allergies or asthma, you may experience more severe forms of these symptoms or have other serious symptoms, such as:
- headaches
- feeling exhausted
- frequent coughing, especially at night
- allergic reactions
- chest colds
- fever
- difficulty breathing
Long-term mould exposure, even if it doesn’t cause immediate symptoms, may also lead to:
- losing your hair
- anxiety
- confusion or memory loss
- numbness in hands and feet
- stomach pains
- gaining weight for no reason
- muscle cramps
