condensation in static caravans, how to combat with double glazing windows and doors

Condensation in static caravans

how to combat condensation in static caravans

Condensation in static caravans can be a big issue. With the increasing costs of gas and electricity we need to be as energy efficient as possible to reduce the cost,

There are various ways we have learnt to do this, minimising drafts, adding replacement double-glazing and insulating the caravan as best you can, we are able to retain more heat in very effective ways. The down side of this however is the reduction in ventilation and any moisture build-up as a result of this has nowhere to go. What then happens is that any excess moisture will gather in the colder areas i.e.; windows, seams & corners, cupboards etc.

Ultimately, lack of ventilation is the main cause of condensation in static caravans There are many different ways you can reduce condensation in your caravan, I have listed a few to help you.

What to do…
Always try to keep a window open slightly when you are in the caravan to allow good air-flow. If you have double glazing windows this can be done securely by using the ‘night vent facility’ .

When you first arrive at the caravan open windows and doors for at least a couple of hours to give it a good airing.

Bathrooms and kitchen areas mostly have additional fan-vents and/or extractor fans as they are places where condensation is at its highest. These for the most part work very well but if taking a bath/shower or cooking a meal it would be as well not only to use the extractors but also to open a window for approximately 15 minutes afterwards to let the air flow freely, pushing out any moist air.

Other helpful tips…

• Do not dry clothes inside
• If using a tumble-dryer, ensure the end of the vent-hose is outside
• Do not use gas heaters (and/or gas hobs for a bit of extra warmth as some of us do when its extra cold!) excessively, this will increase moisture
• Use lids on saucepans when cooking
• Use salt pots to collect moisture
• Use a de-humidifier
• Install double glazing windows and doors
• Increase insulation to walls, floors and ceilings (this will also help to retain heat)
• Regulate your heating by keeping it on a lower setting over a longer time frame to heat gradually rather that blasting your thermostat upto full when you first arrive.

IMPORTANT NOTE – Ensure that air vents around the caravan are kept clear, not only do these help ventilate the inside of the van but also allow the release of any possible build-up of gases from your fires, cookers etc which can be extremely dangerous.

Condensation tends to appear on the coldest surfaces first like glass and mirrors, if you have single glazed windows and doors then this tends to be the first place you will find condensation and would normally be at its worst in the morning with water streaming down the glass ,

One of the biggest steps you can make to combating condensation in your static caravan is by installing upvc double glazing windows and doors, most static caravans can be retrofitted with new energy efficient double glazing windows and doors .

The idea of double glazing is to have an air gap between the outer and inner glass so the inner glass is at room temperature and the outer glass is at outside temperature and having the air tight air gap in the middle means you shouldn't get the temperature difference on the glass causing the condensation to settle on the glass .

Installing static caravan double glazing windows will reduce condensation .

  

What are the effects…
Black mould growth is the most common effect of condensation, but mould can appear in many other colours on carpets, clothing and wood. It can also affect walls and ceilings and can damage our health especially for those with chest issues (e.g. asthmatics) who can suffer as a result of the airborne spores. Signs of mould tend to start forming in the coldest areas, so keep an eye on outside corners and seals/ seams. Wet areas on windowsills and floors are other clear indicators of the effects.

How to treat the effects…
If you do have any signs of mould, mildew or damp, catching it early is the key to preventing any extensive or gradually increasing damage.
If damp areas are visible, take measures to absorb any excess water from windowsills, corners of rooms or anywhere else you can see affected.
If treating areas where mildew is visible, first wipe the area with a damp cloth, cleaning off any black marks or try applying an anti-mould cleaner, this will kill any spores.

Condensation will be greatly reduced in your static caravan by installing double glazing windows and doors .there are companies who specialize in this line of work who can help you with prices and a quote , quotations for static caravan double glazing would normally be valid for 30 days .