Mould occurs when moisture in the air condenses on cold surfaces like walls, windows, or ceilings, creating an imperfect balance in internal atmospheric conditions. The moisture will then react to bacteria and can result in mould growth, particularly in cold areas with poor ventilation. The mould can appear as black, green, or even white patches and often has a musty smell.
Common causes of condensation mould include:
- High relative humidity levels, especially in moisture producing rooms such as bathrooms, kitchens, and utility rooms
- Poor ventilation
- Cold surfaces such as external walls or windows
- Insufficient heating in the winter
Black Mould!
Aspergillus niger is the common species of fungus found within British homes. While it is mostly harmless to healthy individuals, it can sometimes cause health problems in certain circumstances, especially when it grows in indoor environments
Characteristics:
- Appearance: Aspergillus niger often presents itself as black or dark coloured dots which is why it is commonly referred to as “black mould.”
- Growth Conditions: Damp, and cold environments encourage growth on walls, skirtings, ceilings and sometimes on fabrics and upholstery
Health Ramifications:
Aspergillus niger is considered to be not as toxic as some other mould species. It can however still pose health risks, especially to individuals with weakened immune systems, respiratory conditions (like asthma), or allergies:
- Allergic reactions: Symptoms may include sneezing, coughing, nasal congestion, eye watering, all very similar to hay fever
- Respiratory problems: Asthma attacks, bronchitis, or sinus infections.
- Mycotoxin production: Although rare in occurrences Aspergillus niger can produce mycotoxins
Mould Prevention
If mould has already developed, it’s essential to clean it properly and professionally, addressing the underlying cause to prevent it from returning. To prevent condensation based mould, consider the following measures:
- Improve ventilation: Use humidity tracking fans in moisture producing rooms, open windows once in the morning and once in the evening.
- Increase heating: Keeping rooms at a consistent ambient temperature (especially during winter months) can help reduce condensation.
- Use condensation-resistant materials: Improving insulation or upgrading wall finishes using thermal boarding also has the added benefit of improving your property’s EPC rating
- Sanitise surfaces: Walls, ceilings and fomites can be treated using an antifungal solution. The wash and additives should be safe to use and will act as an inhibitor against future mould growth.
- Decorate with biocidal paint which is specifically designed to inhibit mould growth whilst also reducing the surface condensation.
- Remove dampness: Repair any sources of moisture, such as leaks from rainwater goods plumbing pipes or roofs. In the rare instance that your property is suffering from rising damp then this also must be rectified as a matter of urgency in order to gain better control of condensation
Do you have a mould problem in your property?
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