Damp and Mould in Homes: How Rising Energy Costs Can Tip the Balance
In recent years, more and more homeowners have noticed damp and mould in their homes. Black spots in corners, condensation on windows, and a musty smell that just won’t go away have become common problems. While it might feel sudden, the truth is that these issues often develop slowly over time. For many homes, the recent rise in energy prices has been the straw that broke the camel’s back.
Moisture Has Often Been There All Along
All homes produce moisture every day. Cooking, showering, drying clothes indoors, and even breathing add water into the air. Many houses, especially older ones, flats, or those with poor insulation or ventilation, have always had some moisture inside. Usually, this hasn’t caused big problems because heating kept the walls, ceilings, and windows warm enough to stop condensation from forming.
Energy Costs Changed the Balance
With energy bills rising, many households have cut back on heating. Some turn the thermostat down, others heat fewer rooms, or run the heating for shorter times.
These are understandable choices, but
they can make a difference to how the house handles moisture.
When a home is cooler, walls, ceilings, and windows get cold. At the same time, everyday moisture continues to build up in the air. When warm, damp air touches these cold surfaces, it condenses into water, creating damp patches and giving mould the perfect environment to grow. For many homes, this reduction in heating pushed a minor, manageable issue into a visible problem – the straw that broke the camel’s back.
Every Home is Different
Not all homes are affected in the same way. The age, size, and type of building, how well it’s insulated, and how people use it all make a difference. A busy family home produces more moisture than a single-person flat. Solid-wall homes cool down faster than modern, well-insulated houses. Bathrooms and bedrooms with poor airflow often show signs of mould first.
Because every property is different, there is no single solution that works for all homes. What helps in one house might not help in another.
A Balanced Approach is Key
Dealing with damp and mould usually requires a mix of measures:
Keep a low, steady heat rather than short bursts of high heat.
Ventilate rooms properly, especially kitchens and bathrooms. Open windows briefly or use extractor fans when cooking or showering.
Avoid drying clothes indoors when possible.
Consider long-term improvements such as insulation or better airflow.
Treating just the mould or just the heating isn’t enough – the solution usually needs to be tailored to the specific home and the way people live in it.
Understanding the Bigger Picture
The recent rise in damp and mould doesn’t mean homes are being neglected.
Often, it shows that homes were already vulnerable, and the energy crisis simply tipped the balance. By understanding this, homeowners can take informed steps to protect their homes and their health.
Find our how your home can be improved for greater comfort by booking a consultation with our Retrofit Assessors here or contact us for more information here.
