Dampness can occur in homes for many reasons. It can lead to mould and mites, problems keeping your home warm and damage to the building.
There are many causes of damp, including:
These problems often leave a tide mark or coloured stains. The cause of the damp should be repaired as soon as possible. You will then need to dry the dampness out.
If you see black mould growing this is likely to be caused by condensation.
When air gets colder it holds less moisture and this makes tiny drops of water form. Condensation usually happens in cold weather on both wet and dry days. It occurs on cold surfaces and in areas with little air movement. Signs of condensation include:
There is also a type of condensation called interstitial condensation. This happens when warm, moist air soaks into a wall, ceiling or floor before hitting a cold surface within. The air quickly cools and water is left as dampness on the surface. This can look like rising damp. Interstitial condensation can lead to rot and corrosion.
Produce less moisture by:
It is also important to ventilate your home without causing draughts. You can do this by:
Keeping your home warm will also reduce condensation. You can do this by fitting insulation and draught excluders.
Control mould growth – wipe surfaces with a fungicidal wash, dry clean mildewed clothes and shampoo carpets. Do not brush mould as this releases spores into the air.
Remove excess moisture from your home – wipe water off windows and surfaces as it forms or use a dehumidifier.
Keep the property warm and ventilated.