As we have discussed recently, damp and mould can have a serious impact on your home and your family’s health. These unwelcome problems not only make your house uncomfortable but can also lead to increased suffering from allergies, breathing difficulties and many more health problems.
The English Housing Survey shows that about 5% of households in England have had issues with damp. This is just one example demonstrating why we need effective solutions to make our homes more comfortable and efficient at handling moisture, some of which we can put into practice right at home ourselves.
Before we do, let’s recap on some of the common causes of damp and mould in the home:
Causes of Damp and Mould
Poor Ventilation
When homes do not allow enough fresh air to flow, moisture becomes trapped inside. This can lead to condensation on surfaces where mould can grow.
Bad Insulation
This can lead to cold spots in your home, where water can collect. These cold areas are perfect for mould to thrive.
Building Issues
Cracks or gaps in the walls, roof, or window frames can let moisture into your home. This outside moisture can cause damp patches inside, which are ideal for mould growth.
Inefficient Heating
Homes that are not heated properly can stay cold and damp. When it’s too chilly, moisture tends to settle on surfaces and leads to mould.
Everyday Activities
Simple daily routines like cooking, showering, and drying clothes at home release moisture into the air. If this moisture isn’t managed well, it can cause dampness and mould to develop.
It’s important to take steps to manage and prevent damp and mould. Based on advice from the Energy Saving Trust, here are five useful insulation and ventilation tips.
Improve Insulation
- Keeps your home at a consistent temperature
- Reduces cold spots where moisture can gather, preventing mould growth
- Better energy-efficiency, leading to lower energy bills
Increase Ventilation
- Reduces moisture buildup in vulnerable areas
- Reduces the risk of condensation on cold surfaces, which can lead to mould
- Improves air circulation for better personal health and hygiene
Manage Indoor Moisture
- Use lids while cooking to minimise steam released into the air
- Dry clothes outside instead of indoors to lower indoor humidity levels
- Use extractor fans whenever possible when using the bath or shower
Regularly Check for Leaks
- Address leaking roofs and windows to prevent water buildup
- Conduct plumbing system checks to save you from expensive repairs
- Use draught excluders to prevent additional outdoor moisture from getting in
Seal Cracks and Gaps
- Fill cracks in walls and gaps around doors and windows to prevent outside moisture from entering
- Proper sealing can enhance your home’s insulation, improving overall comfort
- Weather-proofing strips are a useful addition to windows to seal gaps
Taking steps to address damp and mould in your home doesn’t have to feel overwhelming, and simple actions can make a big difference. To explore some more personalised ideas around your specific home, we would encourage you to complete our quick form. At RES, we’re dedicated to providing you with the guidance and support needed to create a safer, healthier home for you and your family.