Nobody enjoys living in a damp home, but where does the dampness come from?

Unlike other forms of dampness, condensation is something residents can significantly reduce through daily habits. This guide explains practical steps to create a healthier home environment.

Most indoor dampness stems from condensation, not structural problems. When warm, moist indoor air meets cooler surfaces like windows or walls, it creates water droplets that can damage surfaces and eventually foster mould growth.

Condensation isn't always obvious, so look out for the following signs:

• Water beading on windows and cold surfaces

• Damp patches on walls, particularly in corners

• Black spotting on walls, window frames or behind furniture

• Musty odours in enclosed spaces

• Dampness worse in winter months

• Issues in rooms with high moisture (kitchens, bathrooms)

Condensation typically appears in cooler areas with limited airflow - north-facing walls, corners, behind furniture, and around windows.

1. Moisture Production

Your household can produce surprising amounts of water:

• Two people at home: 3 pints per day

• Washing dishes, or having a shower: 2 pints per day

• Indoor clothes drying: 9 pints per day

• Cooking and kettles: 6 pints per day

2. Home Temperature:

Cold surfaces attract condensation. Steady background warmth helps prevent cold spots where moisture can settle.

3. Air Movement:

Fresh air exchanges remove moisture-laden air before it can cause problems.

Kitchens often generate significant moisture, so consider the following approaches to keep your home dry:

• Use lids on pots and pans to trap steam

• Ensure extractor fans are switched on before cooking begins

• Open a window slightly when cooking (even in winter)

• Keep kitchen doors closed during and after cooking

• Allow hot foods to cool before refrigerating

• Wipe down wet surfaces after use

Bathrooms naturally create concentrated moisture, but these tips are often a great help:

• Run cold water first, then add hot when filling baths

• Keep the bathroom door closed during and after use

• Wipe down shower screens and tiles after bathing

• Use bathroom extractor fans during and for 15 minutes after bathing

• Consider an anti-condensation paint when redecorating

• Avoid leaving damp towels hanging in poorly ventilated spaces

Effective ventilation doesn't mean creating cold draughts:

• Create a 10-minute cross-ventilation in the morning by opening windows at opposite sides of your home

• Use trickle vents in window frames year-round

• After moisture-producing activities, ventilate that specific room while keeping its door closed

• Position furniture with a 5-10cm gap from external walls

• Ensure wardrobes have adequate internal airflow

• Consider a dehumidifier in problem areas if other methods aren't sufficient

How you heat your home significantly affects condensation:

• Aim for a consistent background temperature (18-21°C) rather than alternating between cold and very hot

• Use thermostatic radiator valves and timers to maintain steady temperatures

• If budget constraints limit heating, prioritise maintaining some background warmth rather than short intense heating periods

• Keep internal doors open to unheated rooms to improve air circulation

• Avoid unvented portable gas heaters which release significant moisture

Safety First

• Wear rubber gloves and consider a face mask

• Never dry-brush mould (this releases spores)

• Keep cleaning materials separate and dispose of cloths after use

Cleaning Method

1. Carefully remove visible mould with damp cloth or vacuum

2. Clean surfaces with appropriate mould-removal products

3. For fabrics, follow manufacturer's cleaning instructions

4. Natural alternatives include diluted tea tree oil solution (test on inconspicuous areas first)

5. After cleaning, address the underlying moisture issue to prevent recurrence

While condensation is the most common, other moisture problems require different approaches:

1. Rising Damp:

• Appears as a consistent horizontal band along lower walls

• Often causes plaster to crumble and wallpaper to lift

• Rarely supports mould growth due to mineral content

• Requires professional assessment and repair of damp-proof course

2. Water Penetration:

• Appears after rainfall or in specific locations

• Caused by external defects like damaged pointing or roof issues

• Forms clear, defined damp patches

• Requires external repairs to resolve

3. Plumbing Leaks:

• Consistent dampness regardless of weather

• Often concentrated around pipes, bathrooms or kitchens

• May cause discolouration or water staining

• Needs prompt plumbing inspection and repair