Inspire Magazine - Winter 2018

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Tips & tricks
Here are some helpful tips for avoiding
condensation in the first place and what
to do if you already have it.
1. Cover pans on the cooker,
don’t leave kettles boiling and
remember to open kitchen
windows or use extractor fans
whilst cooking.
2. Dry washing outside or in
a closed bathroom with a
window open. Do not dry
clothes on radiators.
3. Put the outlet pipe of tumble
dryers through the outside wall,
not the window. If buying one,
a condenser type is best for
keeping moisture levels down.
4. Let warm air circulate by
pulling your furniture away from
walls and radiators. Don’t cover
radiators with curtains as the air
goes to the windows and not
into your room.
What if it’s too late?
Here’s what to do to reduce
condensation and remove mould
effectively when it has already formed.
• Wipe down windows and surfaces where water
has settled as this will prevent mould forming.
• If a few black spots of mould appear, clean them
immediately with a fungicidal wash as this will
prevent the need to redecorate. If you don’t take
any action, it can develop into a more serious
problem.
• Do not brush or vacuum mould as this can spread
mould spores and cause breathing problems.
• Mould is a living organism so requires proper
treatment to get rid of it permanently. The best
way to do this is by wiping down with an
approved for purpose fungicidal wash which has
an HSE approval number.
• Mildewed clothes should be thoroughly washed
and carpets shampooed.
5. Open windows on a regular
basis to air your home. Doubleglazed
windows can be locked
in a slightly open position that
keeps it secure, but still allows
air flow.
6. Open bathroom windows or
use an extractor fan when you
take a bath or shower. Make
sure you close the door to stop
moisture escaping into other
rooms.
7. Check your wardrobes or
cupboards aren’t overcrowded
and that air bricks, ventilators or
chimneys aren’t blocked. Good
air circulation is key.
8. Ensure all window vents
are kept open if you have them.
PLEASE NOTE
One Manchester can only be held
responsible for damp that has been caused
by a structural issue in your property.
Damp or condensation caused by normal
household activities is your responsibility.
If you call to report a mould growth
problem, we will check
whether it is a condensation
problem first.
0330 355 1002 13