Is Mould Making You Miserable? Here Are Our Top Tips On Mould Repair.
According to a government survey, there are more than 900,000 homes in England in need of mould repair, experiencing damp problems in at least one room.
We will discuss what damp is, what causes it and how can you get rid of it? Plus we’ve got some top tips on mould repair.
What is damp?
There are 2 main types of damp that affect UK homes and premises, causing mould.
- Rising damp: This is the slow upward movement of water in the lower sections of walls and other ground-supported structures.
- Penetrating damp: This is where water penetrates the outside of a building through walls, roofs or windows and appears inside, as well as serious condensation or mould in any room.
Why is damp dangerous to our health?
Moulds produce allergens, irritants and sometimes toxic substances, that can all cause an allergic reaction. Inhaling or touching mould spores can cause reactions, such as a runny nose, red eyes and skin rashes. Moulds can also trigger asthma attacks.
Some people are more sensitive to damp than others and should stay away from damp and mouldy environments.
These include:
- Babies and children
- Elderly people
- Those with existing skin problems, such as eczema.
- Those with respiratory problems, such as asthma, and
- People with a weakened immune system, such as those having chemotherapy.
What causes damp inside my house?
Damp and mould are caused by excess moisture. Moisture in buildings can be caused by rising damp, leaking pipes, or rain getting in because of damage to the roof or around window frames. Excess moisture indoors can also be caused by condensation. Condensation forms when the air indoors can’t hold any more moisture. Cooking, showering, drying clothes indoors and inadequate ventilation can all cause excess moisture.
How to take on mould repair
First of all you can help prevent the build-up of condensation by:
- Putting lids on saucepans.
- Drying washing outside.
- Opening the bedroom window for 15 minutes each morning.
- Making sure your home is well insulated.
What next in mould repair?
Once you’ve worked out what’s causing the moisture in your home and taken steps to reduce it, you can start treating the mould. You may be able to do this yourself, or you may need to get a professional to remove it.
Only remove mould yourself if it’s caused by condensation and covers an area less than 1 metre squared. Don’t try mould repair yourself if it’s caused by sewage or other contaminated water.
You need to protect yourself from mould spores by wearing goggles, long rubber gloves and a mask that covers your nose and mouth. Open the windows, but keep doors closed to prevent spores spreading to other areas of the house. Throw away any soft toys, clothes or soft furnishings that are mouldy.
To wipe mould off walls use a rag dipped in water with a squirt of washing up liquid. Afterwards, use a dry rag to dry off the wall. Ensure you’ve removed any excess moisture and then put all the cleaning cloths in a plastic bag and dispose of it.
Rainbow International is one of the UK’s leading experts in diagnosing the causes of damp and condensation, which can lead to mould. We combine a full diagnostic process with a plan for remedial action, and a programme for mould repair. And, as we have more than 60 branches across the UK, it’s likely that there’s Rainbow International branch within just 23 miles of your postcode. Call us now on 01623 422488.