As a Bolton estate agent we know the importance of dealing with mould and condensation as early as possible.
When you see damp patches or black spots on the wall, along with a musty smell… it’s enough to make any homeowner or tenant worry. However, before you go jumping to conclusions, it’s important to ask the question: is it mould or condensation?
Here in the UK — the weather brings wet, cold winters and with our older housing stock — these issues with damp or mould are common. Yet whilst the issue of mould and condensation are related to each other, they are actually not the same thing.
In this blog, we’ll be helping you by:
• Helping to spot the difference between condensation and mould
• Get an understand what causes each of these issues
• Learn how to treat them both and more importantly how to prevent then
• Know when you can do no more and there is a need to call in the professions
Let’s Look at Condensation
Condensation occurs when warm, moist air hits a cold surface — like a window, wall, or mirror — and it then turns into water droplets. This is a natural process, especially in winter, when indoor air is warm but exterior walls and windows are cold due to the cold weather outside.
The signs of condensation:
• Seeing water droplets on windows in the morning
• Noticing damp patches on cold walls or corners
• When wallpaper starts to peel or paint starts to bubble
• When there is a general feeling of dampness in the air
Mould
Mould is a type of fungus that thrives in damp and humid conditions. It appears when condensation has been left untreated and it occurs over time.
Signs of mould:
• Noticing black or white fuzzy spots on walls and ceilings or around windows
• When you can smell a strong, musty smell
• Noticing spores forming on furniture and curtains
Mould isn’t just unpleasant smell, as it can also pose serious health risks, especially for those that may be vulnerable such as those with asthma, allergies, or weakened immune systems.
Quite often, condensation may be the cause, and mould is the result of this — but not always.
If you notice black spots forming in damp corners, especially where airflow is poor, in areas such as behind furniture or in window recesses, it is likely it is mould forming because of condensation.
What Causes Condensation and Mould in Homes in the UK?
Main causes to look out for:
• Poor ventilation in the property
• Cold surfaces – often single-glazed windows
• High humidity – lots of cooking or drying clothes inside
• Lack of heating in the property
How to Prevent Condensation in Your Home
1. Ventilate your property daily
o Use extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms
o Avoid blocking air vents
2. Control Indoor Humidity
o Use lids on pans when cooking
o Dry clothes outside the property if possible
o Consider using a dehumidifier in rooms where there are trouble spots
3. Maintain a minimum heating in the property
o Avoid letting rooms get too cold
o Better to heat the whole property moderately throughout the day than have bursts of heat
4. Insulate the property and ensure it is Draught-Proof
o Insulate the loft
o Ensure windows and doors are properly sealed to keep out the cold
How to Treat Mould Safely
Once you’ve tackled the source of the problem, you can then clean and treat the mould safely.
Here is a Step-by-step guide:
1. Wear protective gear: Wear gloves and goggles, and use a mask
2. Use the right cleaning product: Most supermarkets sell anti-mould sprays or consider making your own such as a solution of white vinegar and water
3. Scrub the area: Use a soft sponge — try to avoid dry brushing, which will only spread the spores
4. Let the area dry completely after treating it
5. Repaint with area using an anti-mould paint, especially in recurring areas like bathrooms
Remember never to paint over mould without having first cleaned it first — the mould will only grow back and potentially worsen.
When to Call a Professional
You should seek the advice of a professional if:
• The mould that is present keeps returning even when it has been treated
• The affected mould area is larger is growing
• You or a family member is experiencing health symptoms
Professionals will assess the problem for damp, hidden leaks and provide advice on long-term solutions.
Advice for Tenants and Landlords
Tenants:
• When mould and damp issues start ensure you report it to your landlord or managing agent in writing
• Keep the property ventilated and the heating on where possible
• Keep a documentation of the mould with photos
Landlords:
• When an issue like this is reported to you, make sure you investigate it promptly
• Install extractor fans if they are not present and maintain good insulation in the property
• Use mould-resistant materials in kitchens and bathrooms
In many UK homes, condensation is the silent culprit that leads to mould. But remember with proper ventilation, consistent heating throughout the property, it’s a problem you can manage and in many cases even prevent altogether.