What is condensation and how is it caused?
Condensation is the process of water vapour becoming a liquid and is evident on cold surfaces such as windows and mirrors. The liquid runs down the panes and wets the wooden frames, which can cause paint to flake or the wood to rot.
Condensation requires temperatures to fall below a dew point and in most modern homes the dew point is 12 degrees. If a room remains unheated and the temperature falls below 12 degrees, you will find condensation forming on the coldest surface – normally a window.
Everyday activities can cause moisture to fill the air, including:
- Showers
- Open fish tanks
- Dishwashers
- And even breathing (A family of four generates 12 pints of water vapour a day).
Potatoes?
An old wives tale to prevent condensation involves the use of potatoes.
- Cut a clean potato in half
- Rub the cut part on the chosen window or mirror
- This will leave a layer to prevent condensation build-up
- Leave the surface to dry without touching
- Test out the trick with a hot bath or shower
However, this is only a short term solution and you should use one of our other tips to provide longevity.
Another unconventional short term solution is to place a bowl of salt under the window which will soak up most of the air’s moisture, but not all of it.
The Real Deal
There are a number of more practical methods for ridding your home of condensation and improving the general humidity levels.
- Not drying too many clothes on a radiator or clotheshorse. Drying bundles of clothes at once will just contribute even more to the air’s moisture and create an even bigger problem. If you are able to dry clothes outside, but if not, then try to leave a window open to keep the air circulating.
- Double glazing is a great way of reducing condensation. As warm air cannot escape the house, the dew point remains high and the moisture is retained in the air. Double glazing is also a good way to stop noise pollution from outside and adds extra security to your property.
- A Dehumidifier is another possibility for reducing condensation build-up. This household appliance reduces the level of humidity in the air making it easier to sleep and dry laundry. A high humidity level will also attract insects, fleas and cockroaches.
- Improve the insulation. This has a similar effect to double glazing as warm air cannot escape through walls. The overall temperature of the house remains above the dew point and therefore, does not create condensation.
To find out more about installing double glazing or improving your wall cavities visit www.anytrades.co.uk