If you’re noticing mould growth around your windows, you’re not alone. Mould flourishes on and around windows no matter how new or old your home is. There are a number of different reasons why this occurs, and understanding them is one of the first steps in knowing how to prevent mould on windows.
Preventing mould on windows is important because mould can spread rapidly around a home. Mould growth can damage a home or property. This damage can range from minor to structural defects, so depending on the cause of the mould growth homeowners, property managers or tenants could be held responsible for repairs.
Learn how to prevent mould on windows with expert advice and tips that help you understand why mould grows on windows and also how to remove mould from windows.
What causes mould on windows ?
Inside a home, mould growth really only requires water, or excess moisture, and a food source. Windows are among the most common places to find mould growing inside a home. This is because the temperature differences on either side of a window’s glass helps to create condensation. This condensation provides plenty of water for mould growth. Additionally, mould loves organic material to feed off and wooden window frames, wallpaper and the dust that settles on a window sill provide plenty of nutrients for moulds.
Seasonal changes into the colder winter months tend to increase indoor mould problems. We often trap warm moist air inside the home and keep doors and windows closed to keep out the cold, preventing air circulation. The warm air inside has high humidity and a large percentage of water vapour in it. When this air comes into contact with a cold surface of windows the water vapour comes out of the air and remains as condensation on the cold surface of a window pane.
How to prevent mould on windows
Mould loves to grow in areas of excess moisture. One of the key steps in knowing how to prevent mould on windows, requires you to identify and address the causes of excess moisture in your home and around your windows.
In a home there are many causes of excess moisture. For example, cracked or leaking plumbing, steam from showers, inadequate ventilation or damage to walls, roofs and windows allowing rain and wet in.
Remember these tips to help you prevent mould formation on windows:
- Opening doors and windows whenever possible. This allows air circulation, and is particularly helpful for bathrooms without fans or on humid summer days.
- Ensure ventilators and exhaust fans are kept clean so they are working to their full capacity.
- Wipe dry surfaces where condensation has formed. Sometimes condensation is inevitable, so make sure you regularly clean and dry areas prone to condensation so mould doesn’t have a chance to set hold.
- Allow sunlight into the house whenever possible. Mould thrives in dark, damp and poorly ventilated areas, so letting in plenty of natural light helps prevent mould.
- Keep furniture away from windows and walls. Closed, dark airless areas near windows and walls set up great places for mould growth.
- Use air conditioning and fans to get air circulating. This is particularly useful in winter when doors and windows are often kept closed because of the cold.
- Use a dehumidifier. Sometimes homes or spaces within a home are just prone to humidity and mould. Using a dehumidifier is a great way to help remove any extra moisture from the air.
- If possible, invest in double glazed windows. These are designed to insulate homes from outside conditions, so prevent condensation by stopping warm inside air meeting cold outside air.
How to get mould off windows
If mould affects your windows, here are some tips on how to remove mould from your windows:
- Determine the extent of your mould problem – if your mould infestation is significant or extends well beyond your windows, consider professionals mould removal services right away.
- Get a concentrated mould killer solution – available in most hardware stores. In addition you will need protective wear and equipment for yourself and your home – such as a tarp to avoid splash.
- Set out all your products i.e. put on your protective clothing, lay down tarps in the appropriate area.
- Spray or apply the mould killer solution into the affected window and ensure you don’t miss any cracks.
- Allow 30 mins for the solution to work, then remove any excess solution and wipe dry. Clean and ventilate the area to free any residual vapours.
Get Mould Removal Australia
As with many things in life, prevention is often better than cure. Knowing how to prevent mould on windows can save you a lot of trouble and money in the long run. However, despite your best efforts sometimes mould can remain inevitable for any number of reasons.
At Mould Removal Australia, we believe that nobody should be stuck with mould. Mould can cause damage to your home so don’t let mould cloud up your windows and your day. If you’re having problems with mould it’s time to call in the professionals at Mould Removal Australia to remove it effectively.
For more information about mould and our services see our website.
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If mould is causing you grief, and you’ve tried your best to prevent and remove it, let the experts at Mould Removal Australia handle it for you.
Mould Removal Australia services locations across Sydney, Blue Mountains, Wollongong, Central Coast, Newcastle, Hunter Valley and Port Stephens areas.
Using our Contact Form or calling us on 1300 681 034, you can get a free online quote, book an appointment or ask any mould-related questions.