Why Mould Forms Behind Furniture
If you’ve recently found black mould on walls behind wardrobes, beds, or sofas in your Preston home, you’re not alone. This is one of the most common condensation-related issues we see — especially during colder months.
The cause? Restricted airflow.
When furniture is placed tightly against a cold external wall, air can't circulate. Any moisture in the room (from breathing, cooking, bathing, etc.) becomes trapped between the furniture and the wall. The wall stays cold, condensation forms, and mould spores begin to grow.
What Makes It Worse?
Several conditions make this problem more likely:
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No trickle vents or ventilation in the room
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Single-glazed or poorly insulated external walls
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High humidity from drying clothes indoors
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Furniture pushed right up against the wall with no space for airflow
How to Prevent Mould Behind Furniture
✅ Leave a 5–10 cm gap between furniture and the wall
✅ Use rooms with trickle vents and keep them open
✅ Install proper mechanical ventilation (such as extractor fans or a PIV unit)
✅ Keep background heating on to avoid cold surfaces
✅ Don’t block radiators or vents with furniture
These small changes can make a big difference in controlling condensation and stopping mould in its tracks.
When to Call a Specialist
If mould keeps returning or has spread to plaster, woodwork, or ceilings, it’s best to get a professional survey. At Weather Wise Solutions, we don’t just treat the visible mould — we find the cause and fix it for good.
Why Preston Homeowners Trust Weather Wise
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CPD-certified in Dampness in Buildings
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Members of the Damp Proofing Association
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Accredited by the Federation of Damp
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Honest, practical advice tailored to your home
Book a Free Mould & Ventilation Survey:
https://weatherwiseuk.co.uk/pages/contact