[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]In last months blog post Blount and Maslin identified 3 common types of damp you may encounter in your property. This month we bring you our top tips for preventing damp in your home.[/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”597″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center”][vc_custom_heading text=”Ventilate your property” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
- This will stop damp from becoming worse. It is especially important to ensure old properties are ventilated sufficiently, particularly if they have suffered from damp problems in the past. Try to ensure that air can circulate freely.
- Provide a route for any trapped moisture to escape from your home. Install extractor fans in rooms prone to a high moisture content such as kitchens and bathrooms.
- Open windows slightly when possible. This is especially important during the colder months when condensation is common.
[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Leave space for your rooms to breathe” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
- Condensation commonly occurs behind furniture and furnishings that touch colder outer walls, resulting in mould growth. Try to position furniture, such as wardrobes and beds, slightly away from external walls (approx. 1 or 2 cms) to allow air to circulate.
- Try not to overfill cupboards and wardrobes as this causes them to be warm, which when placed next to a cold external wall can cause condensation.
- If you find condensation to be a problem on windows, it is worth choosing coverings that can be positioned clear of window frames.
- It is sensible to install blinds over the window alcove rather than within.
[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Perform regular internal and external maintenance checks” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
- Check moisture levels near windows and wall corners with an electronic moisture meter.
- To prevent penetrative damp, it is advisable to check your roof for any cracked or missing tiles, particularly after periods of bad weather.
- Keep gutters clear and replace if damaged. Buy and install gutter guards to help keep leaves and debris out.
- Inspect your external brickwork. Look out for crumbling mortar, cracked brickwork, blocked weep holes and holes around pipes and cables. If you have any concerns call a professional who can come and investigate any problems.
- Keep areas around damp-proof courses and bricks clear.
- Regularly check your loft for signs for water coming through the roof.
- Do not place planters directly against external walls.
[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Keep your home warm” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][vc_column_text]
- Install efficient loft and wall insulation, draft proofing and properly fitted double glazing.
- Maintain a constant temperature within your home to prevent fluctuations in the temperature, which can lead to condensation. This can be done by lowering the temperature on your thermostat over a longer period each day.
- Use your heating efficiently by ensuring that radiators are not covered with damp clothes and towels, or blocked by furniture.
[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Minimise the amount of moisture that is produced” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][vc_column_text]
- Avoid drying clothes inside. Drying your washing outside on a rotary line is environmentally friendly and reduces the amount of moisture in the air. Use a tumble drier when outside drying is not possible.
- Ensure that washing machines and tumble driers are correctly installed and fitted.
- It is wise to complete cleaning tasks such as mopping floors and cleaning windows on days when you can open a window to help moisture escape.
- Kitchens often have very high moisture levels due to cooking and washing. Make sure to trap moisture by using lids on pans and kettles. Close doors into other, colder rooms.
- Use your cooker hood when possible and remember to regularly replace the filter to make sure it is working efficiently!
- Leave your cooker hood on for up to 15 minutes after cooking to clear any moisture in the air.
[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Remove excess moisture” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][vc_column_text]
- Use a dehumidifier to remove any excess damp from the air.
- Install moisture absorbers in cupboards and any tight spaces where damp may appear, but where you are unable to use a dehumidifier.
- Remove frequently occurring condensation on windows with a cloth, this will help the room to dry out quicker.
[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Utilise moisture resistant decor finishes” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][vc_column_text]
- Choose paints that are designed for use in kitchens and bathrooms. These paints are formulated to resist moisture. They help to prevent mould, and should it occur, they are easy wipe clean.
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NEXT MONTH…
Is your New Years resolution to MOVE TO A NEW HOUSE? In January’s blog post Blount and Maslin share some ideas to help increase the value of your current property, so you can move into your dream home! Click here to view properties currently available with Blount and Maslin in Malmesbury, or CONTACT US now![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
