It's estimated that more than a fifth of homes in the UK are affected by serious condensation issues, and that figure is likely to be much, much higher.
And this doesn't include other properties, like schools, offices, retail outlets, warehouses, etc. While this problem affects older buildings more than new ones, it isn't always the case; some newer buildings (i.e. those built in the last 20 or 30 years) also suffer from this problem.
In this PIV Team blog, we're investigating ways of getting rid of condensation on windows, walls, or any colder surface where it tends to accumulate.
Before we move on to these methods, we need to understand what condensation is, why it appears, and why it's a problem.
Condensation is the process by which moisture and water vapour in the air transform into liquid water. This happens when the air temperature falls below its dew point, the temperature at which the air can no longer hold all the water vapour, and some of it condenses out.
All air contains some moisture, but warm air has more moisture. When warm, humid air meets a cold impermeable surface, it condenses, forming water droplets.
In buildings, condensation is most commonly observed on windows and other cold surfaces. Warm, moist air inside the building makes contact with the cold surface, causing the moisture to condense and form tiny water droplets. These droplets can appear as a visible film or heavy condensation.
The primary reason condensation occurs in buildings is due to the difference in temperature between the interior and exterior of the structure. Warmer air inside, particularly from cooking, bathing, or ventilation, encounters cooler internal surfaces, such as windows, walls, and ceilings, leading to condensation.
Poor insulation and ventilation are other contributing factors. Inefficient insulation allows heat from the interior to escape more readily, creating a temperature gradient between the inside and outside. Similarly, inadequate ventilation fails to remove moisture-laden air, trapping it within the building and increasing the likelihood of condensation.
Let's summarise the main points to see what causes condensation:
Some of these are easier to deal with than others, and we fully understand that things like showering, cooking, and drying laundry are activities that you can't really avoid!
Still, it's vital that the issue of condensation is addressed, as it can lead to a host of other problems.
While it might seem to be a minor issue for thousands of people, it can become a serious problem if it's not addressed. And that's possibly why some of you are reading this PIV Team blog!
Before we go into how you can reduce condensation in your property, it's time to remind ourselves why this needs to be done:
Addressing condensation issues is crucial for several reasons:
Many of the following methods can be applied to other properties, but we spend much of our time in our homes, and we want them to be as comfortable and as safe as possible. We also want to keep them well-maintained and attractive, and we don't want them spoiled by dampness, mould growth, and mildew.
With all of this in mind, here are some ways that you can get rid of condensation:
Effective ventilation is essential to eliminate condensation. Natural ventilation, like opening windows, allows air exchange, while trickle vents, window vents, and extractor fans provide controlled airflow. Window trickle vents enable continuous airflow, reducing relative humidity without significant heat loss. Extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms expel moisture-rich air directly outside, preventing its accumulation indoors.
It's no accident that we stuck ventilation at the top of the list, as it's arguably the number one factor when it comes to condensation on windows and wall surfaces. This fact lies at the very heart of the PIV Team's work, as we handle the professional installation of Positive Input Ventilation systems - a simple but ingenious invention that eradicates condensation in your home in the majority of cases.
When you reach the end of this list, we'll go into more detail as to exactly how a PIV unit might be the very best option for your property.
Double-glazed windows consist of two glass panes separated by a layer of gas or air as a thermal barrier, offering enhanced insulation. This design reduces heat transfer, minimising temperature discrepancies between indoor and outdoor surfaces. This temperature balance significantly reduces the formation of condensation on the interior window surface.
Single-glazed windows don't offer the same level of insulation, leading to condensation problems before long. This is worse in winter when the low outdoor temperatures make the window panes much colder, and condensation occurs when warm air inside the building hits the cold glass.
Also, whether you have single or double-glazed windows, you still may get condensation because of high humidity. Sometimes, there's so much moisture that it runs down onto the frames, where it attracts mould or damages the framework. This is even more of an issue with wooden window frames, although it can eventually affect uPVC frames adversely.
These are equipped with a refrigeration system that cools the air (a bit like an air conditioning unit), condensing moisture, and collecting it in a reservoir or draining it outside. Desiccant dehumidifiers use a chemical desiccant to absorb moisture. Both types effectively extract excess moisture from the air, maintaining optimal humidity levels and curbing condensation.
A well-ventilated property prevents stagnant air pockets conducive to condensation. Leaving internal doors slightly open encourages airflow between rooms, ensuring a balanced distribution of air and temperature. Proper circulation reduces moisture build-up in enclosed spaces, reducing the risk of condensation.
Improved insulation minimises temperature variations within the property. Cavity wall insulation and loft insulation reduce the possibility of cold surfaces where condensation typically forms. By maintaining more consistent temperatures across surfaces, the likelihood of condensation decreases.
In addition, you'll make your home more energy efficient, saving you money in the long term through lower energy bills.
Effective moisture management when doing the laundry is crucial, as indoor drying contributes to increased humidity levels. Using a dehumidifier or opening windows while drying clothes indoors aids in moisture dispersion. Alternatively, opting for outdoor drying or using a vented tumble dryer minimises indoor moisture build-up.
Try to dry clothes outdoors in the summer (when the weather allows!) as much as possible; drying wet clothes indoors increases the moisture by at least 30%, and this damp air will inevitably turn into window condensation.
Regular inspection and sealing of gaps or leaks in the property’s structure prevent moisture ingress. Applying sealant around windows, doors, and pipework helps create a watertight barrier, reducing the potential for condensation-causing moisture coming in from the outside (known as exterior condensation).
Consistent moderate heating throughout the property helps maintain balanced humidity levels, reducing the formation of condensation on cooler surfaces. Efficient heating systems distribute warmth evenly, preventing temperature discrepancies that cause condensation.
Proper cooking practices, such as using lids on pots and pans, minimise steam released into the air. High-quality extractor hoods expel moisture and cooking odours directly outside, effectively reducing indoor humidity levels. Properly installed and maintained extractor fans are essential in kitchens to prevent condensation issues.
Adequate ventilation for appliances, like ensuring dryer vents are unobstructed, and stoves have extraction systems, prevents the accumulation of excess moisture. Properly ventilated appliances release moisture outside, reducing indoor humidity.
Positioning furniture away from external walls promotes airflow and prevents cold spots where condensation can form. Ideally, there should be at least two inches between the wall and any large pieces of furniture, and even more of a gap if you have the space to do so.
This allows air to circulate freely, reducing the likelihood of moisture accumulating on walls and windows.
Using moisture-absorbing materials like silica gel packets or dedicated moisture absorbers in wardrobes, cupboards, or storage areas helps combat dampness. These materials effectively absorb excess moisture, preventing condensation-related issues.
Invest in the better quality brands, as some cheaper examples do very little to help, and some set solid before you even get to use them.
Applying anti-mould or anti-condensation paint in susceptible areas creates a protective barrier, inhibiting mould growth caused by condensation. These paints often contain additives that discourage moisture build-up on surfaces.
One word of caution, though: the anti-mould and anti-condensation qualities in these paints will lose their potency after about five years. The biocides and anti-fungal chemicals will lose their effectiveness after this time, so you'll need to repaint the area.
Also, a paint coating is not a remedy for leaking pipes or any underlying problem with excessive moisture. However, it is handy to control mould and condensation when used alongside other methods.
Consistent cleaning and upkeep of surfaces in moisture-prone areas are crucial. Regular wiping and drying of surfaces, especially in kitchens, bathrooms, and around windows, discourage mould growth and condensation.
Also, check the air bricks around your property to make sure they aren't clogged up or covered, as these allow air to flow into the space beneath floorboards.
It's also worth checking your damp proof course to see if it has been damaged or compromised
While crawl spaces are rare in the UK, they do exist and can become moisture traps if not ventilated properly. Basements, likewise, can become damp and mould-infested if they're not given the correct care and attention.
Ensuring proper ventilation in crawl spaces or basements prevents excessive moisture accumulation. that leads to condensation forming on walls. Installing vents or fans helps circulate air, reducing humidity levels and preventing condensation in these often overlooked areas.
It's a good idea to insulate any cold water pipes, as condensation forms easily on cold surfaces.
Opt for window coverings like curtains or blinds that allow maximum airflow while still providing privacy. This enables air circulation around windows, reducing the chance of condensation by preventing moisture from getting trapped.
Avoid overcrowding rooms with excessive furniture or belongings, as this restricts airflow and contributes to increased humidity. Adequate space between furniture allows air to circulate freely, reducing the likelihood of condensation.
Using a hygrometer to monitor indoor humidity levels regularly helps identify and address high moisture levels promptly. This helps you maintain optimal humidity, preventing condensation-related issues.
Educating household members about practices that contribute to condensation, such as drying clothes indoors or not using an extractor fan, encourages cooperation in maintaining lower moisture levels and a healthier living environment.
Some of the methods mentioned above should go some way to reducing condensation, but what if we suggested that there's a way to stop condensation completely?
Sounds too good to be true? To be fair, this is generally the case. But PIV is, as they say, the exception that proves the rule.
So, what is a Positive Input Ventilation system, how does it work, and will it eliminate condensation in your property for good?
The PIV Team has the answers right here!
Check out: How Does A PIV Unit Work
It's a whole-house ventilation system that introduces fresh air into the building via a gently rotating fan and ducting. This creates slight positive pressure that pushes stale air out through gaps in the building's fabric, including window vents.
The unit is usually fitted in the loft space but can also be fixed to an outside wall if necessary.
Explore further: What Is A PIV Unit
When fresh air is introduced into a building, it displaces the existing air. This displaced air is typically warmer and more humid than the fresh air. As the warm, humid air is forced to move out of the building, it carries with it some of the moisture that it contains. This helps to reduce the overall moisture level in the building, which can help to prevent condensation.
A PIV unit doesn't only control humidity and reduce condensation; it has a whole load of other benefits as well!
Check out a few of these plus points:
Take a look: Health Benefits Of PIV Units
The average cost is between £500 and £1,000, including installation, although some models can be around £2,000. The total cost varies depending on the size of your property and the PIV model chosen.
By applying the methods we have provided above, you can stop condensation in your home and avoid problems with mould, mildew, and damp.
The PIV system is a key element in this, making your home a healthier and more comfortable space in which to live.
Contact the PIV Team today for more information on how to win the battle against condensation!
