Damp and mould

What is damp and mould?

There are four main causes of damp and mould. If you think you might have any of these, get in contact with us.

1. Penetrating damp

Penetrating damp is when water from outside seeps through the walls. This can be caused by faulty roofing or guttering.

2. Leaky plumbing

Leaks from the toilets, showers, sinks or pipes, can get into walls and ceilings. They usually create a distinct damp patch, and will be there whatever the weather, usually after the faulty item is used.

3. Rising damp

This shows as a ‘tide mark’, or horizontal line on a ground floor wall. This is often a sign that groundwater is getting in.

4. Condensation

There’s always moisture in the air, even if we can’t see it. Most moisture in your home is created by everyday activities like washing, cooking and bathing. If moist air touches a cold surface, like a window or wall, condensation will form and mould spots may grow.

Give us a call!

Any of the above causes is a good reason to call us. We’ll arrange an appointment to have someone visit and start to build a plan of action. If you think your damp is caused by number four, condensation, our team want to hear from you so do call us. In the meantime, these are some tips that might help.  

Condensation tips

Reduce moisture in the air

• When cooking, keep lids on pans and the kitchen door closed. If you have one, use an extractor fan or consider opening the window.
• When taking a bath or shower, open a window or use an extractor fan, and close the bathroom door. Keep the door closed afterwards to stop moist air spreading.
• When running a bath, put cold water in first then add hot – it reduces steam by 90%.
• Dry clothing outdoors where possible. If you can’t do that, use a room with the window open and door closed – and don’t put clothes on radiators to dry.
• If you use a tumble dryer with a ventilation pipe, make sure it leads outside.
• Avoid using portable gas or paraffin heaters as these produce a lot of moisture.
• If you see condensation forming – simply wipe it away with a clean dry cloth and consider increasing ventilation. 

Increase air flow

• Keep vents and window trickle vents open and clear.
• Open windows for five minutes at a time, a couple of times a day. If you can, open them on opposite sides of your home to let the most air circulate.
• Avoid putting too many things in cupboards, as this limits air circulating.
• Leave about two inches of space between furniture and external walls, so air can circulate.
• Don’t leave clothing or bedding in the corners of rooms.

Treating mould

• Spray affected areas with a mould remover (remember to wear gloves and any other protective equipment as well as following the manufacturer’s guidance).
• Paint the area with a mould killing paint. Remember, this paint is not effective if overpainted or if wallpaper is placed on top.
• Keep the area dry by regularly checking and wiping away any condensation.

Heat your home efficiently

Keeping your home warm will reduce the impact of condensation but, if you're struggling with the cost of your heating bills, please visit our energy efficiency web page for advice and support.

• Don’t try to warm an unheated room by leaving the door open to a heated room – the warm air will enter the cold room and condense on cool surfaces.

What is damp and mould? 

There are four main causes of damp and mould. If you think you might have any of these, get in contact with us. 

• Penetrating damp

  Penetrating damp is when water from outside seeps through the walls. This can be caused by faulty roofing or guttering

• Leaky plumbing

  Leaks from the toilets, showers, sinks or pipes, can get into walls and ceilings. They usually create a distinct damp patch, and will be there whatever the weather, usually after the faulty item is used. 

• Rising damp

  This shows as a ‘tide mark’, or horizontal line on a ground floor wall. This is often a sign that groundwater is getting in. 

• Condensation

  There’s always moisture in the air, even if we can’t see it. Most moisture in your home is created by everyday activities like washing, cooking and bathing. If moist air touches a cold surface, like a window or wall, condensation will form and mould spots may grow. 

Give us a call! 

Any of the above causes is a good reason to call us. We’ll arrange an appointment to have someone visit and start to build a plan of action. If you think your damp is caused by number four, condensation, our team want to hear from you so do call us. In the meantime, these are some tips that might help.