Product Care

Condensation and black mould are common issues in Irish homes, particularly during colder months when windows are kept closed and indoor heating is used more often. While a bit of condensation can seem harmless, frequent moisture build-up and mould growth can signal deeper problems with ventilation, insulation, and glazing performance. Left unresolved, they can harm both your home’s structure, indoor air quality and your health.

Let’s explore why condensation occurs, how it leads to mould, and what practical steps you can take to manage it. We will also highlight how modern window technology, like the systems Fairco installs, can help reduce condensation while improving comfort and energy efficiency.

What causes condensation?

Condensation forms when warm, humid indoor air meets a colder surface, such as your window glass. The temperature difference causes water vapour to turn into droplets. The issue becomes more noticeable in winter, when windows are cooler and indoor air tends to be more humid.

Common contributing factors include:

• Poor insulation or glazing: Older single-glazed windows, or early-generation double glazing, cool quickly and provide a cold surface where moisture condenses.
• High indoor humidity: Activities like cooking, showering, and drying clothes indoors increase moisture levels.
• Insufficient ventilation: Without adequate airflow, humidity builds up indoors. This is often made worse when trickle vents are blocked or windows remain tightly sealed for long periods.

How condensation leads to black mould

When condensation persists, it creates damp conditions ideal for mould growth. Black mould thrives on surfaces that remain damp, such as window frames, sills, and surrounding plaster. Over time, this can damage finishes, cause unpleasant odours, and worsen respiratory conditions such as asthma and allergies.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), prolonged exposure to damp and mouldy environments is associated with respiratory symptoms and allergic reactions. Addressing condensation is therefore not only a maintenance issue but also a matter of home health.

How to fix and prevent condensation and mould

1. Improve ventilation:
   Increase airflow throughout your home by opening windows for short bursts daily or ensuring trickle vents remain unblocked. In bathrooms and kitchens, use extractor fans that vent outdoors. Mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) systems can also help maintain balanced humidity.
2. Manage indoor humidity:
   Avoid drying clothes indoors where possible and cover pots while cooking. Using a dehumidifier can help maintain indoor humidity between 40 – 60%, which research shows is optimal for comfort and health.
3. Maintain consistent indoor temperatures:
   Sharp temperature fluctuations encourage condensation. Keeping your home evenly heated, especially in rooms with large windows, helps prevent moisture from settling.
4. Upgrade to energy-efficient windows:
   High-performance double and triple-glazed windows with low-emissivity (low-E) coatings and insulated frames reduce the temperature difference between interior glass and indoor air. This limits condensation formation. Fairco’s window systems are designed with advanced thermal insulation, helping maintain warmth while minimising the likelihood of condensation and the resulting damp.
5. Regular maintenance:
   Clean window seals and frames periodically and check for damaged weatherstripping. Properly maintained seals prevent moisture ingress and preserve airtightness.

The long-term solution: balance insulation and ventilation

Condensation problems often occur when insulation improves, but ventilation does not. Modern homes are built to be highly airtight, which improves efficiency but traps humidity if ventilation isn’t managed. A balanced approach of combining efficient windows with adequate airflow creates a stable, comfortable indoor environment.

Fairco’s windows and doors are engineered to deliver this balance. With advanced glazing, thermal breaks, and precision installation, they help homeowners achieve improved insulation without compromising air quality.

Final thoughts

Condensation and mould are signs that your home’s insulation, ventilation, or glazing may need attention. By addressing humidity, improving airflow, and investing in high-performance windows, you can protect your home’s structure and create a healthier living space.

To learn more about improving your home’s efficiency and comfort, contact Fairco for tailored window and door solutions that reduce condensation and enhance performance year-round.

After months of summer heat, rain, and fluctuating temperatures, autumn offers the perfect opportunity to prepare your home for winter. While gutter cleaning and garden tidying often come first, your windows and doors deserve equal attention.

Regular maintenance not only keeps them looking their best but also ensures lasting performance and energy efficiency. The UK’s Glass and Glazing Federation notes that poorly maintained installations are a leading cause of draughts and energy loss. A few simple seasonal checks can protect your investment and keep your home warm and secure.

Glass and frames

Wind, rain, and falling leaves leave their mark in autumn. Use a soft cloth with a mild, non-abrasive cleaner to restore clarity and shine. Avoid harsh chemicals that may damage uPVC or aluminium finishes. For timber frames, a gentle detergent works best, and take the chance to inspect for peeling paint or weathered stain.

Tip: A clear view now means you’ll enjoy every bit of daylight as evenings draw in.

Fairco’s OMNIA Flush and Performance uPVC systems are designed for easy upkeep. Their advanced finishes resist dirt build-up and fading, allowing you to maintain a just-installed look with minimal effort.

Check seals and gaskets

With colder weather on the way, seals and gaskets become your first line of defence against draughts and damp. Over time, they can shrink or loosen. Run your hand around the window and door edges to detect air leaks. Replacing worn seals can noticeably improve comfort and reduce heating costs.

According to the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), heat loss through draughts and poor insulation can account for up to 20% of a home’s total energy waste. Fairco’s precision-engineered systems ensure tight sealing performance and optimal thermal efficiency.

Look for condensation or moisture

Cooler temperatures often bring increased condensation. If you notice misting between glass panes, the sealed unit may have failed and could need professional attention. Check thresholds and sills for pooling water, especially after heavy rain, to prevent long-term damage.

Hardware

As daylight fades earlier, security becomes even more important. Test locks, handles, and hinges for smooth operation. If movement feels stiff, use a silicone-based spray or light lubricant. Avoid oil-based products that attract grit.

All Fairco windows and doors, including the OMNIA Flush range, feature multi-point locking and reinforced hinges for enhanced security and long-term reliability.

Test operation and alignment

Open and close every window and door fully. If they stick or catch, seasonal humidity may have caused minor shifts. Simple hinge or latch adjustments now can prevent unnecessary strain later in winter.

Fairco installation teams calibrate every fitting for long-term ease of use, ensuring performance and alignment remain consistent year-round.

Refresh timber finishes

Autumn’s mild days provide ideal conditions for refinishing timber frames before winter damp sets in. A light sanding followed by a new coat of paint or stain protects against warping, rot, and weathering.

If you’re looking to minimise maintenance altogether, Fairco’s Performance uPVC range offers the visual warmth of timber with none of the seasonal upkeep, combining authentic design with long-term durability.

Why seasonal maintenance matters

Taking time for simple upkeep each autumn ensures:

• Energy efficiency – better insulation, lower heating bills.
• Security – reliable locks and reinforced hardware.
• Longevity – protection against wear, moisture, and movement.
• Peace of mind – confidence that your home is ready for winter.

With innovative ranges like OMNIA Flush and Performance uPVC, Fairco helps homeowners combine timeless design with effortless maintenance, keeping homes secure, efficient, and beautiful through every season.

Discover how Fairco’s low-maintenance window and door ranges make year-round care effortless. Book your free consultation today!