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6 Steps to Prevent Condensation, Mould, and Mildew in Your Home

Are black spots and mould plaguing areas in your home? Condensation, mould, and mildew can turn a comfortable living space into an unhealthy environment. Understanding the root causes and following proper heating and ventilation practices are crucial steps to maintaining a warm, dry, mould-free home.

Condensation occurs when warm air comes into contact with cold surfaces- like walls and windows. This leads to the conversion of water vapour in the air into liquid water on surfaces. Whilst condensation alone isn’t problematic, dampness caused by too much condensation can lead to mould growth on walls, ceilings and furniture. Both mould and mildew are types of fungi that thrive in damp and humid environments. Mould around the home is not only unsightly and damaging, it can also pose health risks, especially for people with respiratory issues.


If you’re suffering from mould and mildew making an appearance in your home, you should ensure that the affected areas are thoroughly cleaned and then treated with an appropriate mould spray. Some options readily available in the shops or online include Mould Magic, HG Mould Spray, and Astonish Mould and Mildew. In the case of walls, once they’re clean, treated and dry, you can repaint with mould resistant paint if you choose to.

Unfortunately, simply cleaning away and treating areas of mould and mildew won’t stop the problem from returning. To really eradicate the issue, you need to take preventative action and tackle the cause. Here are some actions you can take:

1. Identify Problem Areas


Common areas for condensation include bathrooms, kitchens, poorly ventilated spaces and areas used for drying laundry. These areas are often wet, steamy or are playing host to water evaporating which then causes higher humidity and condensation in cold spots.

2. Improve Ventilation


Proper ventilation is key to preventing condensation and mould growth. Ensure that your home is well-ventilated by using extractor fans in bathrooms and kitchens. Even in cold weather, consider opening windows slightly to allow fresh air circulation. This helps to reduce humidity levels and discourage the growth of mould and mildew.

3. Regulate Indoor Temperature


Maintaining a consistent indoor temperature can help prevent condensation. Keep your home adequately heated, especially during colder months. This prevents warm air from meeting cold surfaces, minimizing the likelihood of condensation. Investing in insulation for walls and windows can also contribute to temperature regulation. We recommend you keep your home heated within a range of 18 to 22 degrees Celsius.


4. Use Dehumidifiers


Dehumidifiers are effective tools in controlling excess moisture in the air. These devices extract moisture, preventing the build-up of humidity that encourages mould growth. Place dehumidifiers in areas prone to dampness, such as basements or areas where you’re drying washing, to create a less favourable environment for mould and mildew.

5. Clean and Ventilate Regularly


Regular cleaning is essential to preventing the accumulation of mould and mildew. Make sure you clean and dry surfaces prone to moisture regularly, such as bathroom tiles and window sills. If you find that your windows are covered in condensation in the mornings, you could consider buying a window vacuuming tool, such as the Kärcher Window Vac.

6. Address Plumbing Leaks Promptly


Leaky pipes and taps can contribute to excess moisture, providing an ideal breeding ground for mould and mildew. Address plumbing leaks quickly to prevent water damage and the growth of fungi. Regularly inspect your plumbing system, and if you notice any leaks, fix them immediately to maintain a dry and healthy home environment. 

Need help?

Did you know we tackle plumbing issues as well as gas and heating? For leaks, heating, gas and boiler worries, don’t hesitate to contact us at JJS Gas and Heating for expert advice and guidance.

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