How Ventilation Reduces Condensation and Protects Against Black Mould in Older Homes

Most houses built before the 1990s are far less airtight than modern builds. They may lack cavity wall insulation, have single glazing, and often rely on casual air gaps or window-opening for ventilation. Ironically, many have had replacement windows and draft-proofing fitted—improving warmth but inadvertently trapping moisture inside.

Common moisture sources in older homes:

• Steamy kitchens and bathrooms without effective extraction
• Laundry drying indoors
• Cold bridging at corners, ceilings, or behind furniture
• Poorly ventilated cellars or lofts

When moist indoor air cools down—on windows, walls, and cold corners—condensation forms. If it's not properly removed, these damp surfaces become ideal spots for mould spores to settle and grow, usually the infamous black mould (Stachybotrys chartarum).

Signs your home is at risk:

• Streaming windows or puddles on sills every morning
• Dark, fuzzy patches on walls, ceilings, or around skirting boards
• Persistent musty odours
• Peeling paint, blistering plaster, or damaged wallpaper

Today's ventilation systems are designed to prevent moisture build-up, not just treat the symptoms. Here's how Flexivent's systems solve the problem:

Positive Input Ventilation (PIV)

Perfect for retrofits, PIV units gently introduce filtered air from the loft into the entire property, gradually expelling damp air and lowering humidity. This break in the cycle stops condensation dead in its tracks.

Mechanical Extract Ventilation (MEV)

Targeted ventilation for problem rooms—continuous moisture removal from kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry spaces keeps condensation and mould at bay.

MVHR (Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery)

For larger renovations or comprehensive upgrades, MVHR systems provide whole-house fresh air while recapturing up to 95% of otherwise lost warmth.

Our customers have seen dramatic transformations:

• Case Study---Victorian Terrace: Regular mould outbreaks behind wardrobes and in the bay window area eliminated within weeks of PIV installation.
• Edwardian Flat: Persistent bathroom condensation and black spots solved with MEV and humidity-controlled extractor fans, no more repainting or costly repairs.
• 1960s Bungalow: Entire home converted to MVHR during renovation---air fresher, energy bills lower, and zero condensation for the first winter ever.

Condensation and mould aren't inevitable in older homes. With professional ventilation assessment and installation, you can enjoy all the character of your property—without the hidden dangers.

Ready for your own transformation? Contact Flexivent for expert advice, bespoke solutions, and a healthier, mould-free home.