by Rachel Knowles

Created on: September 14, 2009   Last Updated: September 15, 2009

Nobody wants mold growing in their home. Not only is it unsightly, but it can also cause health problems such as headaches, coughing and skin rashes if left untreated.

The key to the prevention of mold is eliminating dampness. Where too much moisture is allowed to build up, mold will often grow. The main culprit for dampness in the home is condensation. This occurs where the air temperature cools and the air is no longer able to hold all the moisture. This typically occurs where there is a high water content in the air due to activities such as bathing and cooking, or there is a difference in temperature, such as on single-glazed windows on a cold morning, and especially where there is low air circulation. Drops of water form and if left can provide a perfect growth spot for mold. So how can you reduce condensation in your home?

1. Decrease the moisture level in the air

Always switch on your extractor fan when cooking on the hob. Keep the kitchen and bathroom doors shut when these rooms are in use. Dry clothes outside wherever possible. Make sure that your tumble drier is vented outside unless it is the self-condensing type. Wipe down any condensation appearing on windows in the morning.

2. Increase the air circulation

Keep windows on the ventilation setting at all times if possible, but particularly when people are in the room. Open windows wide before bathing or taking a shower and leave open for twenty minutes afterwards. When drying clothes inside, shut the door of the room where they are being dried and open the windows wide. Open windows when you are cooking or washing up. Allow space for air to circulate around your furniture. Wherever possible, place furniture such as wardrobes against internal walls. Open doors to ventilate wardrobes and cupboards. Consider using a humidistat-controlled electric fan to reduce humidity levels.

3. Increase insulation

Insulate your loft. Draught proof your loft hatch. Consider cavity wall insulation if your home is suited to it. Install double-glazing or secondary glazing. Draught-proof any outside doors or windows which are not suitably glazed.

4. Increase your heating level

During cold weather, don't let your home become too cold - use a thermostatically controlled heating system to maintain the temperature.

Dampness can also be caused by other water-related problems: Leaking pipes, leaking roof, blocked gutters, rising damp, wet plaster - from a new build or extension, over-zealous children in the bath.

To prevent the growth of mold, you should ensure that any water leakages or spillages are quickly dealt with, using a dehumidifier if necessary, to dry out the carpets and walls.

Learn more about this author, Rachel Knowles.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.