Controlling Condensation and Mould
The main ways of controlling condensation & mould are:
- Ventilation
- Heating
- Insulation
- Removal
Ventilation
- Open windows and doors to ventilate the home and reduce the humidity level. Don’t forget the attic, basement and crawl spaces.
- Install and use mechanical ventilation (exhaust fans) that are vented to outside air, particularly in the bathroom and in the kitchen while cooking. This can eliminate much of the moisture that builds up from everyday activities.
- Consider installing ventilation over appliances producing moisture, such as dryers, stoves, &kerosene heaters, or leave windows ajar while they are on.
Heating
- Keep indoor moisture low. Relative humidity should be below 60% (ideally 30%-50%). Relative humidity can be measured with a humidity meter, a small, inexpensive instrument available at most hardware stores.
- Maintain low constant heat when weather is cold or wet. Continuous, even heating is better than short bursts.
- Install heating in the bathroom such as heat globes.
Insulation
- Condensation forms more easily on cold surfaces, for example walls and ceilings. In many cases, those surfaces can be made warmer by improving insulation.
- Insulate hot and cold surfaces, such as water pipes.
Removing Mould
- Eradicate mould when it occurs. It is hard to remove when it has been there a while;
- Do not dry brush the area. This could release spores into the air which can spread the mould further as well as cause an allergic reaction in some people; and
There are several treatments for mould:
- Tea Tree Oil is effective. A 3% solution or 2 teaspoons in a spray bottle with 2 cups of water will suffice. Shake well before each use.
- Kill mould from surfaces with an 80% white fermented vinegar solution (available from supermarkets). After applying the mixture, leave for at least 20 minutes and then lightly sponge with clean water.
- Remove the mould physically. Killing, but not removing the mould may allow it to grow back.
- Don’t use bleach. Bleach has a high pH which makes it ineffective to kill mould. It simply bleaches it, so it looks like it has disappeared.
Remember: The only lasting cure for mould is to reduce the dampness!