Although the cold of winter might be slowly receding, the springs bring with them another challenge. It might be getting sunnier, but it’s also going to get a lot rainier, which can be a problem for homes that have an issue with moisture, especially those that are prone to growing mould. Aside from being very unsightly, mould can pose some serious health risks to you and your home. For that reason, we’re going to look at the best steps you can take to tackle it, preventing it from showing itself in your home.
Keep Your Home Well Ventilated
One of the things most don’t understand about mould is that it doesn’t pop up out of nowhere. The spores that cause it to grow are always present in the air, but they need the right conditions to grow, which includes a surface to grow on, and moisture in the air. As such, they tend to gather in places with poor airflow, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and especially basements. Moisture builds up where there isn’t good airflow, so improving the ventilation can make a big difference. It keeps the spores circulating so they don’t have time to settle and reduces the risk of condensation. If you see condensation, then that should be your cue to address ventilation issues, whether it’s by opening the windows more regularly, using extractor fans, or even just leaving the doors open between rooms more often.
Act Quickly With Any Leaks
Since mould loves moisture, any sources of excess moisture need to be addressed quickly, and there are none more urgent than a leak, even a small one. Water seeping into floors, walls, or ceilings creates the perfect conditions for mould growth. As such, if you spot the signs of a leak, you should act immediately to fix it, first by shutting off the mains valve, then by calling a plumber. You should be sure to regularly inspect areas where leaks are most likely to occur, too, such as around toilets, washing machines, and dishwashers.
Take Care Of The Roof (And Gutters)
Leaks can also come from the outdoors, and your roof and gutters both play a vital role in preventing them from reaching the home by directing water away from it. Paying attention to your roof is vital as leaks up there due to missing or damaged tiles and components very often go unnoticed for months. It’s worth having your roof inspected twice a year, preferably at the start of fall and at the end of winter, in preparation of the big changes to the weather. Similarly, be sure to clean out your gutters regularly to prevent them from getting blocked, which stops water from building up in them and eventually redirecting towards your home.
Invest In Good Insulation
Cold spots are one of the biggest problems in any home when it comes to mould. Areas of the home that are more prone to the cold are also more likely to see a buildup of condensation, which provides the moisture mould needs to grow. Air gaps in the home, be it in the walls, attic, or otherwise, cause the warmth to flow out in greater concentration, which leaves those cold spots. Investing in cavity wall insulation can help you seal off these air gaps. You might even be able to get some financial assistance in managing the costs of installing that insulation thanks to the energy-efficiency programs out there. Double-glazed windows are also a good investment, addressing the air gaps that can appear around old windows.
Consider A Dehumidifier
In areas where humidity levels are consistently high, a dehumidifier can be an excellent tool for preventing mould growth. These devices work by removing excess moisture from the air, making it harder for mould to take hold. These devices can be especially helpful in areas that are more prone to damp, such as bathrooms and laundry rooms. If you see any signs of condensation, dampness in the air, or a musty smell, but you don’t yet see any mould, you might be just in time to install a dehumidifier that can help you get the moisture levels back to where you need them to be. When using a dehumidifier, be sure to empty and clean the water collection tray regularly to prevent bacteria or mould from growing inside the unit. Some models also come with built-in humidity sensors, allowing you to maintain an optimal moisture level without excessive drying of the air.
Mould is an ongoing problem for a lot of homes, but usually there are sources that can be addressed directly. Hopefully, the tips above can help you find the problem and put an end to it, giving you some real peace of mind.
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