Beating the Battle of Condensation: 5 Effective Tactics

Condensation is one of those things that is, for so many homes, pretty much part of the furniture. However, when it comes to beating the battle against condensation in the home, there are a number of different methods to attempt. Let’s show you what you can do:

Utilizing the Best Long-Term Solutions

So many people think about the basic options to stop something in the short term. One of the best things we can do is to upgrade to double-glazed windows to prevent cold spots that attract condensation. The window company, Approved Contractor, can provide you with a variety of double-glazed windows to suit your needs, but you can also use mold-resistant paints when redecorating, installing extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms, as well as improving the insulation in areas like the walls and lofts to maintain consistent temperatures, which will prevent moisture buildup.

Identify the Source

The common causes of condensation are those which release moisture into the air, and these are the everyday activities like showering, cooking, and many other things. Lack of ventilation means moist air escapes the home, as well as extreme temperature fluctuations caused by poor insulation, not to mention vented appliances that don’t properly exhaust to the outside (such as dryers), and even drying clothes indoors can release moisture into the air. When you identify the source of the condensation, especially in colder areas, you can determine if the issue is caused by excess moisture production or if it has to do with poor ventilation and temperature control.

Improving the Ventilation

This is a very simple but incredibly effective solution. When you identify the common places where you experience condensation, you need to start opening windows regularly to allow moist air to escape, especially after cooking in the kitchen or after showering in a bathroom. Extractor fans are excellent at removing steam and humidity, but you also need to maintain airflow. If you are struggling with this, the best practice is to regularly open all of the doors to maintain a “through flow.”

Control Moisture Sources

If you begin to see that there are the same issues time and time again, the best thing you can do is to control those as best as you can. For example, exhaust appliances should be properly vented to the outside, as well as little things like drying clothes in well-ventilated rooms or outside rather than on indoor racks or radiators. When you’re cooking, you should keep the lids of the pots and pans on, as this will contain the steam.

Keep Checking

Checking for signs of condensation regularly and addressing these issues as quickly as you can will make all of the difference. In addition to wiping down windows and walls regularly, as well as removing mold with natural cleaners like baking soda or vinegar, you should also make sure that you waterproof your home properly.

by
Barb Webb. Founder and Editor of Rural Mom, is an the author of "Getting Laid" and "Getting Baked". A sustainable living expert nesting in Appalachian Kentucky, when she’s not chasing chickens around the farm or engaging in mock Jedi battles, she’s making tea and writing about country living and artisan culture.
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