Safeguard your home from MOULD this WINTER!

Winter has well and truly set in, and with temperatures plummeting, heavy rainfall, cold temperatures and even heaters can sometimes cause condensation that can lead to mould problems. Safeguard your home with some of our mould prevention tips below.

What is mould?

Mould is a kind of fungus that grows through tiny airborne particles called spores. It can grow on almost any surface if these conditions exist:

• Indoor humidity of 80% or more.

• Moisture, often from condensation. While mould can grow without it, moisture makes it grow faster.

• A food source, like ingredients in paint, household dust, or cooking fumes.

The most common mould, called sooty mould, leaves brown or black stains on surfaces like walls and ceilings in bathrooms, bedrooms, and cupboards. If not treated, it can spread throughout the house. Green furry mould grows on organic items, such as shoes or clothes.

Condensation and mould

The winter season brings with it condensation and mould growth problems in houses, units, townhouses and villa homes. Condensation and mould can occur in any type of home construction, including weatherboard, brick veneer, solid brick, and brick veneer.

Condensation and its causes

An atmosphere full of water vapor is considered highly humid. When this humid air touches a cold surface like a wall or ceiling, it cools down and water vapor turns into condensation on that surface. High humidity can make absorbent materials like clothing or bedclothes feel damp. It can also cause rust on metal surfaces, such as spring wire mattresses.

How to prevent condensation

To prevent condensation, it’s important to replace humid air with dry air through better ventilation. Here are some tips for improving home ventilation:

• Open windows and doors to increase airflow.

• Ensure proper ventilation during the day, especially when the house is closed on cold nights.

• Keep room ventilators and exhaust fans clean to avoid blockage from dust or fluff, which can hinder ventilation.

• Use exhaust fans while bathing, showering, cooking, doing laundry, or drying clothes.

Warm moist air

Warm air will not cause condensation on a cold surface, but warm moist air will. Warm moist air can be created by:

• steam from cooking

• washing dishes or clothes

• clothes dryers that are not externally vented

• steam from bathrooms

• drying damp clothes inside

What can I do to reduce mould in the property?

To reduce mould growth, follow these simple tips:

• Allow dry air to circulate by using proper ventilation.

• Open doors and windows, especially in the bathroom during cool weather.

• Keep bathroom surfaces, showers, and curtains dry, and open the door for air circulation.

• Regularly clean your home and wipe away moisture from windows and walls.

• Let sunlight into your home, particularly in the bathroom, laundry, and kitchen.

• Wash and dry damp clothes, and air out damp shoes outside quickly. Store them dry to prevent mould growth, and keep wardrobe doors open if possible.

• Remove fruits and vegetables from plastic wrap, refrigerate within 27 hours, and discard mouldy items. Store fresh food in sealed containers or use cling film.

• Clean evaporation trays in air conditioners, dehumidifiers, and refrigerators often.