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Condensation and mould can manifest in various ways within different areas of a building. One of the most immediate signs of condensation is the presence of visible moisture, often in the form of running water on windows and walls. Many of us are familiar with the need to wipe down windows during colder months due to the accumulation of water. This occurs because windows tend to be less thermally efficient than the surrounding walls. If left unattended, this moisture can lead to the deterioration of the property’s aesthetic condition, including stained curtains, window frame damage, and the appearance of mold on wallpapers and paints, particularly in areas with poor ventilation.
What is condensation and mould?
Condensation is often more pronounced on the north face of a property, which receives less sunlight and consequently remains colder, creating favourable conditions for mold growth associated with condensation. Other susceptible areas include spaces behind large furniture items like beds, sofas, and wardrobes when they are pressed against external walls. Such arrangements restrict air circulation, leading to conditions influenced by the colder external walls.
Another area to inspect is high corners, where air may stagnate, and there is less air movement. In severe cases, condensation can cause damage to plaster and timber. It can also occur in locations such as under suspended timber floors and in roof voids, significantly increasing the risk of fungal decay or rot. These areas are typically unheated and laden with moisture. When warm air from inhabited spaces enters these cold areas, there is a potential for condensation to occur, leading to issues.
Now, what does mold look like? It’s a challenging question to answer definitively because there are hundreds of thousands of mold species, each with its unique appearance. Some may share similarities, while others may not. In most homes, we typically encounter fewer than 100 mold species. Different mold species can vary in colour, depending on their preferred substrates, temperature conditions, and moisture levels. While I can provide some typical examples of what mold might look like, it’s important to understand that its appearance can vary widely. These examples are just a few common ways mold may manifest itself, but it may not always look precisely like this. However, the key takeaway is that if you observe these telltale signs, it indicates an imbalance within the indoor environment, and further investigation is necessary.