How to Stay Warm
Keeping warm during colder months is not just about comfort. It has a direct impact on the health of your home. Properties that are too cold or poorly ventilated are more likely to develop condensation and mould, particularly in older housing where insulation may be aging or missing altogether.
Why Indoor Temperature Matters
Cold indoor temperatures encourage condensation. When warm air meets a cold surface, such as an external wall or window, the moisture in the air settles into droplets. Over time this moisture feeds mould growth, damages plaster, and can lead to unpleasant smells and health concerns.
A home that feels cold to the touch, especially along external walls, may be losing heat due to poor insulation or even damp within the cavity. Keeping your home consistently warm helps stop these cold surfaces from attracting moisture.
The Best Minimum Temperature to Prevent Mould
Most UK building and health guidance suggests that living spaces should be kept at a minimum of about 18 degrees. This is generally considered warm enough to prevent the main forms of condensation that encourage mould.
Lower temperatures allow surfaces to cool down significantly, which makes condensation far more likely, especially first thing in the morning or during the night. Keeping rooms at or above 18 degrees helps maintain stable warmth, reduces moisture settling on surfaces, and limits the conditions in which mould thrives.
Bedrooms can be slightly cooler, although falling too far below 16 degrees can still encourage condensation, particularly when windows remain closed during the night.
Most important is not to let any part of the house go below the current dew point.
Practical Ways to Stay Warm Indoors
Many homeowners assume they simply need to turn up the heating, but insulation and airflow often play an even greater role in keeping warmth inside.
Check your insulation
If your cavity wall insulation is old, wet, or missing in places, heat will escape through the walls. This not only makes the property colder but also increases the risk of damp. A professional cavity inspection can identify whether insulation needs replacing or removing.
Seal draughts
Small gaps around windows, doors, vents, or floorboards let warm air escape and allow cold air to enter. Simple draught proofing can make a noticeable difference without major expense.
Use consistent heating rather than short bursts
Keeping a steady temperature is more effective than switching the heating on and off. Constant heat prevents large fluctuations in wall temperature, which lowers the risk of condensation.
Improve ventilation in areas with high moisture
Kitchens and bathrooms produce the most humidity. Using extractor fans, opening windows slightly while cooking or showering, and avoiding indoor clothes drying where possible all help reduce moisture levels.
Move furniture away from external walls
Items such as wardrobes and sofas can trap cold air and prevent walls from drying naturally. Leaving a small gap allows air to circulate.
Create a Warm and Healthy Living Environment
Maintaining a steady indoor temperature of about 18 degrees, combined with good ventilation and effective insulation, is one of the most reliable ways to keep your home mould free. A warm home is not only more comfortable but also better protected against the damp conditions that cause long-term damage.
If you are concerned about cold rooms, condensation, or recurring mould, we can help you understand what is happening inside your walls and guide you towards a practical, lasting fix.
Give us a call today: 01903 331 578