How to Prevent and Treat Mould in Your Home
Mould in the home is often the result of excess moisture caused by structural or ventilation issues. This problem tends to become more noticeable during the winter months. When you turn up the heating, the warm indoor air comes into contact with the cold exterior surfaces of your home, causing condensation. Without proper ventilation, this excess moisture builds up, creating the ideal environment for dampness and mould to develop, which can damage paint and other surfaces.
Why Does Mould Build Up in Winter?
Mould problems tend to surface in winter because of the temperature difference between the warm air inside and the cold air outside. Condensation forms on windows, walls, and other cold surfaces, and when there isn’t enough ventilation to dry it out, dampness accumulates. This can lead to mould growth, which not only looks unpleasant but can also harm your walls and health. Paint, wallpaper, and other surfaces can peel or deteriorate due to persistent damp.
Preventing Mould: Ventilation and Dehumidifiers
The best way to prevent mould from taking hold is to address excess moisture before it becomes a problem. Here are a few simple steps:
- Improve Ventilation: Keep windows open, even if just slightly, to allow fresh air to circulate and reduce moisture levels. Good airflow helps dry out condensation and prevents dampness.
- Use a Dehumidifier: These devices help remove moisture from the air, reducing the chances of mould forming in the first place. They're especially useful in rooms prone to dampness, such as bathrooms and kitchens.
Treating Existing Mould
If mould has already started to grow, it’s important to address it as soon as possible. Here’s a step-by-step guide to tackling the problem:
- Clean the Area: Before doing anything else, the affected area needs to be cleaned. There are various cleaning products designed specifically to tackle mould. We recommend using:
- Sand the Affected Paint: Once the area is clean and dry, you may need to sand away any damaged paint or surfaces affected by mould. This ensures the surface is smooth and free of any remaining spores.
- Prepare the Wall: After cleaning and sanding, apply a mould-preventative treatment. We suggest using:
Repainting Mould-Prone Areas
When it comes time to repaint areas that have been affected by damp or mould, it’s best to use specialist paints designed to resist mould and moisture. These paints create a barrier that helps prevent mould from reappearing. We recommend:
- OWOTROL VC175 MOULD KILLER ADDITIVE
- ZINSSER PERMA-WHITE INTERIOR PAINT
- RONSEAL ANTI CONDENSATION PAINT
- DULUX TRADE MOULDSHIELD FUNGICIDAL EGGSHELL
- RONSEAL 6 YEAR ANTI MOULD PAINT
The Health Risks of Mould
Mould isn’t just a cosmetic problem—it can also pose serious health risks. Prolonged exposure to mould can lead to respiratory problems, allergies, and other health issues, especially for those with pre-existing conditions like asthma. This is why it’s so important to address mould early and take steps to prevent its return.
Long-Term Prevention Tips
During the winter months, there are several products and strategies that can help you manage excess moisture. However, the best long-term solution is to reduce the overall humidity in your home. Here are some tips to keep moisture levels in check:
- Avoid Drying Clothes Indoors: If you need to dry clothes inside, ensure that the room is well-ventilated by opening windows or using a dehumidifier.
- Keep Doors Open: Allow airflow between rooms by keeping interior doors open. This helps moisture circulate and prevents it from settling in one spot.
By keeping your home well-ventilated, reducing moisture levels, and addressing mould early, you can protect both your home and your health from the damaging effects of mould.