Damp in homes is a common issue. Recent research suggests that around 11% of homes will have noticeable signs of damp. Whether it is black spots around the bathtub or condensation on the window, most of us could recognise the signs. But, if left untreated, damp can cause some serious issues. Not only can it lead to expensive home repairs but it can also affect your health. Modern building regulations require buildings to install damp proof course and damp-proof membranes into the wall and floors, which helps in preventing damp significantly.
When it comes to damp, prevention is the best way forward. Follow these steps to keep damp outside of your home.
Look for Signs of Damp
You might not notice you have damp until the obvious signs appear. But by this point, it can be too far gone for a quick fix. It is important you keep an eye out so if damp does occur you catch it fast.
A telling sign of damp is mould. This could be dark spots on the grouting in your bathroom or discoloured patches on walls. Another sign is condensation on your windows. This means there is excess moisture in the air and can be accompanied by little puddles of water on your windowsills. Also, stay aware of any musty smells and look inside the backs of cabinets and cupboards for any wet or discoloured patches.
You shouldn’t always wait for these signs. Get into the habit of checking around your home. If walls are cold or damp to the touch, you should pay more attention moving forward. And be wary of any plumbing that is loose or old as this could leak.
Outside maintenance
A little bit of outside maintenance can go a long way in reducing your chances of damp. Check your roof regularly, especially after a storm, to make sure it is all intact and there are no leaks. Also, try to keep your gutters clear of leaves or debris. If you notice any problems, make sure you fix them sooner rather than later before damp has the chance to spread.
Regulate temperature
A key factor of damp is condensation that is caused by excess moisture in your home. A way to avoid condensation is to regulate your home’s temperature. If you set your thermostat to a lower temperature but keep it on for longer, you avoid sudden rises or falls. It is these quick changes in temperature that lead to condensation.
It is also worth considering double-glazed windows if you don’t already have them. They prevent warm air from inside the house hitting the cold glass of an outside window.
Minimise moisture
You can buy dehumidifiers to keep around your house which will capture excess moisture from the air. You also want to avoid drying clothes around your house as this will be counterproductive to your moisture reduction efforts.
Ventilation
As well as reducing the amount of moisture inside the property, you want to allow any moisture to escape quickly.
Consider installing extractor fans in your bathroom or kitchen if you don’t have them already. If you do have them, make sure they are on for plenty of time to allow any moisture to escape.
A simple tip is to open your windows wherever possible. It isn’t ideal in the colder months, but it is extremely effective at getting the moisture out. If your windows have it, make use of the option to lock them slightly ajar so you minimise the cold air getting in.
Act fast
In some cases, you will notice damp in your home but it will be advanced enough to need larger intervention. If the damp is severe, act fast to get the necessary solution. You want to solve whatever is causing your damp quickly before the fix becomes even more expensive.
Damp can be a massive inconvenience for renters and homeowners alike. And, unfortunately, it is fairly common and will affect a lot of us. Luckily, there are simple things you can do to reduce your chances of being caught out. If you do find damp in your home, act fast and damp proof it sooner rather than later.
At Danford Brewer & Ives, we are equipped to tackle all sorts of damp issues. Whether you have a rising damp, penetrating damp, or condensation problem, we can take the necessary steps to stop and rectify the damage. The sooner you get in touch, the sooner your home can be damp-free. If you have any questions, get in touch on 01765 804050.