The Height of Condensation Season
In the building trade, the months between October and April are commonly referred to as 'condensation season', as it is during this time that the damaging problem is most likely to occur. December, January and February are the worst months for the problem, with a sharp spike in the number of cases reported.
The air that surrounds us naturally contains water vapour, the amount of which is increased by human activities like cooking, bathing, washing/drying laundry and even the simple act of breathing. As the temperature of air increases, so too does the amount of water vapour it can hold.
When air laden with water vapour comes into contact with a cool surface like a wall or window, the air temeperature drops and the excess vapour returns to a liquid state as it condenses. This liquid soaks into porous surfaces or runs down non-porous surfaces where it pools at the bottom. The reason that condensation is such a problem in the colder months is due to the fact that the difference between indoor and outdoor temperature may be much higher than normal.
Within a property, condensation can cause all sorts of issues, not least for the health of the inhabitants. Condensation is the leading cause of damp, which provides the perfect environment for mould growth (particularly black mould). Mould spores can cause or aggravate respiratory conditions like asthma and bronchitis, as well as skin conditions such as eczema.
The main visual symptoms of condensation problems include water running down internal walls and windows, pools of water on windowsills, patches of black mould (particularly at wall junctions) and damp walls that do not have tidemarks. It's crucial that the problem is not confused with rising damp (which leaves a clear line of demarcation) or leakages (which typically result in isolated areas of damp extending from the leak itself).
Twistfix is an expert supplier of a comprehensive range of items designed to remediate and prevent condensation problems, including mould removal products, anti-condensation coatings, fungicidal additives, internal wall insulation, heat recovery units, cavity closers and positive input ventilation fans. Please browse our website for more information about these products.