Condensation - A simple explanation

Condensation in a property is usually a direct result of the ‘life style’ of its occupants. In other words it is how we live in our properties i.e. the frequency, amount and type of heat used combined with what we do that produces water vapour that might eventually end up as condensation on windows and walls causing mould growth and a musty smell. Condensation tends to be a nuisance during the cooler winter month and it would also be true to say that certain properties are more susceptible to condensation than others.

A simple explanation of what is happening - If you get into your car on a cold morning the windows steam up and you have to turn on powerful ventilation fans and the heater to clear the windows. Why do the windows steam up? As warm blooded living breathing mammals we introduce considerable amounts of water vapour into the atmosphere just by breathing and perspiring. In the confined space of a cold closed car this water vapour will quickly condense on the coolest surfaces the most visible being the inside of the windows. In other words it was you that caused the car windows to steam up – it was not the car’s fault. This is also a very good indicator of just how much water vapour we each produce in a short space of time just sitting still and doing nothing exceptional.

Although much bigger, in terms of condensation a property behaves in much the same way as a car. A property that has been unoccupied for some time does not usually suffer from condensation. As soon as occupants move in and start cooking, bathing, breathing and perhaps worst of all drying clothes inside, there is a significantly increased risk of condensation becoming a nuisance causing mould growth and its associated ‘musty smell’. The problem has the potential to be much worse in poorly heated and pooly insulated properties especially if the water vapour generating activities of the occupants is not adequately controlled.