Dampness is a major source of disrepair in a house and can be caused by several factors such as:

• leaking pipes, wastes or overflows
• rain seeping through the roof, spilling from a blocked gutter, seeping in around window
• rising damp due to a defective damp course or missing damp course
• condensation where moisture in the air condenses onto cold surfaces

Damp can cause mould growth, can cause wood to rot and other materials to decay. It will spoil decorations and will encourage development of mites and increase the risk of respiratory illness.

Avoiding condensation

Condensation normally occurs in the coldest months of the year and is due to moisture being held in the air. This moisture is naturally present; however, cooking, washing, bathing and drying clothes all produce excess moisture.

When this air meets a cold surface e.g an external wall or window, it condenses i.e. it changes back into water causing damp patches and misty windows. As moulds and fungi prefer damp conditions, the damp areas provide an ideal environment for mould growth.

Unfortunately, there are no instant cures for condensation. However, if the guidelines below are followed, the level of condensation in your home can be reduced to a manageable level.

Produce less moisture

• Use lids on pans
• Do not leave kettles boiling
• Simmer foods gently
• Avoid the use of paraffin and portable flueless bottled gas heaters
• Dry washing outdoors
• Add cold water to the bath before the hot water
• Vent tumble driers to the outside

Ventilate to remove moisture

• Keep a small window or a trickle vent open when someone is in the room
• Ventilate kitchens and bathrooms when in use by opening windows wider
• Use a humidistat controlled electric fan, which come on automatically
• Close kitchen and bathroom doors when they are in use
• Ventilate cupboards and wardrobes and allow space between them and the wall
• New window units should incorporate trickle ventilators

Insulate, draught proof and heat your home

• Insulate your loft
• Consider cavity wall insulation
• Consider secondary and double glazing of windows
• In cold weather keep low background heating on all day

Mould growth

To remove mould, wipe down walls and window frames with a weak bleach solution or a fungicidal wash. Dry clean mildewed clothes and shampoo carpets. Decorate using fungicidal paint.

Important

Do not block permanent ventilators

Do not completely block chimneys - leave a hole about two bricks in size and fit a louvered grille