Damp and mould can cause health problems, so it’s important to prevent them from growing. They can also be a major eyesore, affecting the look and smell of your home.
Condensation caused by cooking, showering and drying clothes indoors can encourage mould growth in your house. Improve ventilation in these areas to reduce the risk of mould.
Mop up spills
If you’ve spilled something on your carpet or upholstery, it can attract mould spores and cause damp problems in 24 to 48 hours. So act quickly to dry up the area.
Use a wet cloth and mop up the spill with it. Don’t forget to wipe down walls, floor and ceilings to get rid of any lingering damp traces.
Add moisture-absorbing houseplants to your home for a natural way to keep humidity levels down.
Mould thrives in damp, cool areas and can damage your indoor air quality and lead to respiratory illness.
All of these things are bad for your health, so it’s important to prevent any kind of spill from getting worse. This is especially true for big spills – and following the right procedures can make all the difference.
Seal leaks
The best way to prevent damp and mould is to fix leaks, dry damp areas and remove humidity from the air. These actions will discourage the development of mold and keep it from coming back.
Leaks can occur in a number of places around the home, including pipes, drains and showers. These can become a breeding ground for water and mildew if not addressed immediately.
If you’re unsure about a leak, contact a professional for advice. They’ll take a moisture reading, identify the source of the problem and advise you on how to solve it.
Damp and mould can be dangerous to your health if you breathe in the particles or the tiny spores it releases into the air. This can affect your immune system and cause a variety of conditions, including respiratory illnesses and allergies.
Ventilate
Moulds and other fungi thrive in damp environments, particularly if there isn’t good ventilation. They can cause health problems such as breathing issues and itchiness, and can damage your home.
Condensation occurs when water in the air cools to the point that it can no longer be held in the form of invisible water vapour, and begins to form liquid droplets (known as condensation). This is most noticeable during winter when the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the house is high.
You can prevent condensation by ensuring there is a continuous flow of fresh air into and out of your property. Try not to overfill cupboards and wardrobes, as this prevents airflow and makes it easier for mould to grow. Move furniture away from walls in winter and leave wardrobes slightly open to encourage air movement.
Remove mould
Molds are not only unappealing, but can cause serious health problems for people with allergies or respiratory disease. They can also cause headaches, skin rashes, nausea, sinus problems, memory loss, and coughing and wheezing.
If a mold problem isn’t properly cleaned up, it will continue to grow and spread. That’s why it’s crucial to identify the moisture issue that’s setting up the environment for mould growth.
Check hidden areas that may be prone to mildew and mold: the backside of dry wall, wallpaper or paneling; the top side of ceiling tiles; and inside walls around leaking or condensing pipes.
Ventilate When You Can
Open windows to let moisture and odours out, especially in rooms like the kitchen or bathroom that are prone to damp. Use a dehumidifier or fan in these areas to keep humidity levels low.
