As the rainy season approaches, it's time to start thinking about damp and mould. If left unchecked, they’ll make your property their new home. Not only can they cause structural damage, but they’re also not great for anyone’s health. Fortunately, my damp and mould remediation expertise can help you tackle these unwelcome guests.
Understanding Damp: Why Is Everything Always Wet?
Damp is basically excess moisture’s way of saying, I’m here. It’s usually the result of leaks, poor ventilation, or rising damp creeping up from the ground. Once the moisture settles in, mould gets comfortable, and before you know it, you’ve got a mould issue.
Types of Damp: Rising damp is when water from the ground decides it wants to see what’s above it, creeping in through walls and floors. Penetrating damp happens when rainwater finds leaks in your building’s structure and works its way in. Condensation is caused by poor ventilation, so all that cooking, showering, and (yes) breathing leads to moisture accumulating on cold surfaces.
Preventing Damp and Mould: It’s Just About Good Habits
For landlords: Regular inspections are a must. Check for leaks, blocked gutters, and cracks that water can sneak through. Trust me, it’s better than explaining to tenants why their walls are becoming furry. Improve ventilation by installing or upgrading extractor fans, especially in the kitchen and bathroom. And yes, remind tenants to actually USE them. If rising damp is making an appearance, it’s time to install a damp-proof course (DPC). Also, make sure to communicate with tenants—give them guidelines on airing out the property and using heating properly. No one wants condensation.
For tenants: Ventilate daily. Yes, I know its chilly, but opening a window won’t hurt. Just give your home some fresh air, especially when cooking or showering. Use those extractor fans—they aren’t just for show! Turn them on during and after a steamy shower or while cooking to keep condensation at bay. And don’t forget to wipe down affected areas. Regularly clean surfaces that seem to be mould magnets, like bathroom tiles and windowsills.
For homeowners: Roof and gutter maintenance is key. If water’s not flowing away from your home, it’s just hanging around looking for a way in. Keep those gutters clean and patch up roof leaks before they get worse. Proper insulation keeps things warm and stops condensation, but don’t seal the house tight as airflow’s still key. In particularly damp areas, consider using dehumidifiers to keep excess moisture out.
Tackling Mould: Time to say goodbye to mould
So, the mould managed to slip in. Don’t panic here’s what you do. For small areas, grab a mould-specific spray try and use one with a biocide rather than a bleach-based mould cleaner as a bleach based cleaner will make mould disappear, but a biocide will kill the mould as well. Then scrub it away. For larger infestations (like when your wall starts looking like a science experiment), it’s time to call in the pros. Remember, mould isn’t just ugly—it’s a health hazard, especially for those with respiratory issues. So, stay proactive: keep the airflow going, dry surfaces off, and deal with damp as soon as it shows up. Trust me, prevention is way cheaper and less headache-inducing than repairs.
With these tips, landlords, tenants, and homeowners can fend off damp and mould like pros, saving walls, ceilings, and even your tenants’ health from ruin. And if you find yourself in need of extra guidance or just want to vent about that persistent patch of damp, you know where to find me!
Photo by Bulkan Evcimen on Unsplash