Conservatories are more susceptible to condensation than any other room type in an average UK household.
If left unmanaged, it can cause real issues, such as black mould, peeling paint, and nasty odours. Not only are the results unpleasant, but the growth of black mould is very dangerous for human beings to breathe in.
In this article we cover how you can prevent condensation in your conservatory.
What Causes Condensation?
Condensation is when water vapour turns back into water liquid, and when this happens inside, it can cause a build-up of moisture on surfaces and windows. It is often caused by high humidity levels, a low temperature, and insufficient ventilation – three things that can quickly happen in a conservatory.
To make sure your conservatory stays in a comfortable and safe room in your house, you need to prevent this as much as possible.
More Ventilation
Good ventilation is essential in a conservatory. Modern conservatories can be installed with powder-coated aluminium, which helps with the roof’s ventilation, reducing the risk of moisture build-up. Double glazing can help with this, too. Not only will double glazing help reduce condensation, but it will also help the temperature stable throughout the seasons.
Other ways to improve ventilation and preventing condensation in your conservatory include:
Opening windows
UK households may get chilly in the winter, but opening a window is essential for good ventilation. Try opening your conservatory windows for an hour each morning to help get the air moving.
Balancing the temperature
A cold temperature will increase condensation, which is why you want to heat the place during the colder days. If you struggle with temperature control, consider investing in an electrical heater.
Opening doors throughout the home
It is not just the conservatory you need to think about – it is the rest of the house, too. By opening doors throughout your home, you will decrease the amount of humidity in the conservatory. Avoid keeping the conservatory behind a closed door at all times.
Opening the blinds/curtains
You might need to keep the curtains closed now and again, but do not keep them that way, as moisture will soon build up. When opening the conservatory windows in the morning, be sure to do the same with the blinds or curtains.
Do not Hang Wet Clothes Up
Hanging your wet clothes up in the conservatory is a huge mistake. The moisture will only start building up on the windows and windowsills, resulting in too much condensation and eventually mould.
If you need to hang your clothes inside to dry, choose an area heated with a window open (and preferably a room far from the conservatory). Do not forget to make the most of the UK’s sunny days by hanging your washing outside!
Invest in a Dehumidifier
If nothing else works and your conservatory still suffers from too much condensation, then consider investing in a dehumidifier. You might not need it in the summer months, but that’s OK because UK households can rent a dehumidifier during the winter. This is handy, as you will not have to pay full price for the item, and you will only use it when you need it most.
