The 5-step guide to tackling stubborn condensation and mould on windows and how to stop it for good
DEALING with condensation and mould during the winter months can seem like a never-ending task, particularly around the windows.
There are plenty of tips and tricks available online – from cleaning mould, killing it and preventing it.
Here, we share the five-steps that you need to take to properly address the problem and prevent mould from returning.
Matan Korin, the Vice President of Sales at Ecoline Windows, explains how you can remove mould and stop it from ever developing around your windows again.
CLEAN UP
Get a bowl with washing up liquid and water and use a scrub and cloth to remove the mould from the windows.
The brush will agitate and scrub away the surface mould, while the water breaks down and lifts it.
He recommends wearing protective gear like gloves and a mask to avoid inhaling mould spores while you’re cleaning.
LICENSE TO KILL
A mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water is the perfect solution to kill the mould.
Let it sit for at least an hour after scrubbing the surface mould so it can penetrate and destroy any mould spores and then wipe it off.
It’s vital to treat mould growing in the home as soon as you spot it as it can be dangerous to your health.
Vinegar’s acidic properties can destroy 82% of moulds but there are other options available says the window expert.
“Baking soda paste, hydrogen peroxide, and commercial mould removers are all viable alternatives you can use to tackle a mould problem,” he explains
“To address airborne mould spores, use a vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter,”
Mould grows by producing tiny particles called spores – these are air-bound and can grow quickly in your home.
The NHS states damp and mould in your home you’re more likely to have respiratory problems, respiratory infections, allergies or asthma.
Damp and mould can also affect the immune system.
EASY BREEZY
If you have any draughts coming from your window even when they’re closed, you may need to fill gaps around the frame.
Matan suggests apply self-adhesive foam strips to prevent this.
You can purchase self-adhesive foam stripes for just £6.99 from Screwfix.
LOCKED IN
The expert also recommends using window-film to lock in your heating and stop condensation from growing on windows.
You can bag Thermo Window Cover for just £8.80 on Amazon.
He adds: “This can minimise heat loss during winter, reducing the chances of condensation forming on the glass.”
FRAME OF MIND
If you have single-glazed windows, it might be time to upgrade them.
He recommends UPVC windows as they are designed to stop heat loss and the materials can protect against mould.
Matan says, ‘When addressing window mould, you need to combine cleaning, maintenance, and proper ventilation.
“In turn, you can safeguard the well-being of your household and your home.’
MOULD IN UK HOMES
According to silveroaksolicitors mould is a massive issue in British homes
- Privately rented households in England have damp, mould, or excessive cold in over half of homes (58%)
- Of all the houses in England, 8% have some form of damp problem
- Mould can affect your health, and the NHS estimates it could save £38 million per year on treating patients with damp and mould-related illnesses if damp problems in homes were rectified