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CONDENSATION: WHAT IS IT AND HOW CAN I REDUCE IT?

 

condensation

If you are constantly having to wipe condensation off your windows then it’s time to take action.
Condensation on windows and in conservatories can damage paintwork, wall coverings and window fittings.  If left, it can lead to mould growth, potentially causing serious health issues.
But what is it? And what can you do to reduce condensation within your property?

WHAT IS CONDENSATION?

Condensation forms when there is a difference in temperature between inside and outside the property.
There are a variety of places that water vapour comes from within your home.
The most common is from breathing – two sleeping adults produce approximately 1 litre of moisture in 8 hours.
Water vapour is also created from cooking, wet clothes and heaters. This water vapour enters the atomsphere and then condenses into water droplets on the surface of your windows.

how can I reduce it?

DOUBLE OR TRIPLE GLAZING

Double or Triple glazing is designed to reduce the loss of heat by conduction from the inside to the outside of the building – acting as an insulator.
By installing double or triple glazed windows the temperature of the surfaces inside the property are at a higher level and therefore reduces the risk of condensation.
 Double or triple glazed units contain energy efficient low-emission glass that have enhanced thermal insulation properties thanks to a high performance transparent coating that reflects heat from radiators or fires back into the room. As a result, the outer pane of glass does not get warmed by heat escaping from inside and remains cooler than less thermally efficient windows.
If you find that there is condensation within the cavity of the double glazed window then there is most likely a failure in the seal. We offer a Service Call if you want to get this checked. 

VENTILATION

When it comes to reducing condensation, it’s about more than just glazing.
Ensuring you have adequate ventilation in your property is the easiest way to keep humidity low. Areas such as the bathroom and kitchen are the key rooms to ensure ventilation. When cooking, boiling the kettle or taking a hot shower  the humidity of the room rises, creating condensation. Try opening a window or using an extractor fan.
Leaving a gap between furniture and your walls also allows for air to circulate the room better. You should also take care to not overfill cupboards and wardrobes which also allows air to move freely and prevents clothes from feeling damp.
Your washing machine and tumble dryer are also major contributions to condensation if not vented properly. Two litres of water is emitted into the air from just one load of washing.