Condensation on Windows and Frames Causing Mould

Condensation and mould growth can become a problem during the colder months in Melbourne. But what is condensation? Condensation is water that collects on cool surfaces when humid air makes contact with it. Another way to describe it is when warmer air comes into contact with cooler surfaces – the water droplets from the warmer air will start to collect onto the cooler surfaces given the difference in temperatures.

When there is high humidity water will condensate on cooler surfaces in a property, which typically begin on the windows. If there are damaged or defective window frames water can collect in these areas an slowly grow mould over time. If you suspect there has been a flooding event in your property and the walls and window frames are damaged, we recommend having a flood remediation specialist inspect your property and ensure drying standards are met. This way, there likelihood of mould growing around the windows will be reduced.

Household Areas Susceptible To Condensation

The areas in your property that are susceptible to condensation and mould are bathrooms, kitchens and laundries. Bathrooms are exposed to constant moisture due to the shower and warm air. If there is poor ventilation in your bathroom the moisture in the warm air will start to collect on the surfaces including the walls and the ceiling. Any surfaces that are more porous are more likely to have mould growth later on. This is because the organic material combined with moisture trapped inside the materials create the right environment for mould growth. Typically, mould is found in the walls and ceilings of bathrooms for this very reason. In addition to this the warm or hot water used in showers easily results in condensation on the cooler surfaces in the bathrooms. Broken ventilation fans will speed up the condensation and potential mould growth process as excess moisture is not being removed from the environment.

Other areas in the house that are susceptible to condensation are kitchens and laundries. When there is poor ventilation in kitchens common appliances such as kettles can lead to increased condensation. Additionally, if kitchen exhaust fans are broken or not working as effectively, excess moisture from cooking from the stovetops can settle on surfaces in the kitchen. In small laundry spaces the warm air can easily settle on the walls and ceiling. If there is no exhaust fan, there is a possibility of mould growth here too.

Mould growth can occur in all types of areas within your property, especially when there is a flood or water intrusion. If you experience a flood or water intrusion event at your property we recommend calling a flood damage specialist immediately. Keep an eye out for areas that have condensation on a daily basis and find ways to mitigate it by using an exhaust fan or increasing the ventilation by opening the windows.

Why Can Condensation Lead To Mould Near Windows?

Condensation is the collection of warmer water on cooler surfaces. When these surfaces are porous the moisture will become trapped and mould spores will have an optimal environment to begin growing. The windows themselves won’t grow the mould, but any moisture that has become trapped in the wooden frames or walls around the windows.

The conditions that encourage mould growth are excess moisture, poor ventilation and in some cases darkness. Mould can grow in the light too however, so care needs to be taken to investigate all areas of your home if you suspect there has been mould growth in your property. Condensation essentially provides the right amount of moisture required for mould to begin growing.