How Do I Make My Home Winter Ready?
Dampness, humidity and condensation in winter are conducive to moisture, which can often lead to mould growth. Mould not only affects the physical appearance of a surface; it can also have profound health implications, especially for people with respiratory problems like asthma or those who suffer from allergies.
If you intend to tackle excess moisture before issues arise, a proactive and thorough response is required to keep your property healthy and damage-free.
Here are step-by-step ideas on how to get rid of moisture and inadvertently prevent mould and property damage this winter.
How Do I Make My Home Winter Ready?
Understanding the Causes of Moisture
Condensation is caused by indoor humidity, dampness, and poor ventilation, which forms the perfect breeding ground for mould. It is most noticeable on windows, walls, and ceilings, where warm air rises and settles on cold surfaces.
Moisture accumulates much faster with leaky roofs, uncontrolled plumbing issues, or undersized drainage systems. Recognising these potential causes and acting before any underlying issues arise is the first step to dealing with moisture and preventing mould from spreading throughout your property this winter.
Tackling the Source of Moisture
Addressing the cause of moisture should be among the first things you consider. Above all, focus on assessing any problems with ventilation. Open a few windows occasionally and install extractor fans in the bathroom and kitchen to reduce humidity.
Managing condensation is just as crucial. Consider wiping the windows and cold surfaces regularly or placing towels on windowsills to absorb any standing bodies of water.
The best long-term solution is getting a dehumidifier, effectively drying the air. Leaks from roofs, plumbing, or gutters should be taken care of at the first sign, as even small water leaks can lead to additional dampness. Consider proper insulation to help retain warmth in your property, which can considerably reduce condensation.
How Does Moisture Affect Fabrics & Soft Furnishings?
Moisture doesn’t restrict itself to walls and ceilings. Soft furnishings, carpets, and fabrics are also at risk in properties with humidity issues. With moisture comes the potential of mould, and if your curtains, cushion covers, or any other washable items are infested, remove them and wash them in hot water with detergent to kill any spores present. For carpets, thorough vacuuming is always advisable—using a vacuum fitted with a HEPA filter is always best.
However, if the problem turns out to be larger than anticipated, professional cleaning may be needed. Some items, particularly those severely affected by mould, may need to be thrown away.
To prevent mould from forming on fabrics, it’s essential to identify and address the source of moisture. This could be something as simple as a faulty or inefficient radiator in the room.
Why Is Moisture Control Important?
Dealing with excess moisture is vital to keeping your property in tip-top condition and preventing related health concerns. Mould spores, caused by untreated moisture, can lead to respiratory diseases, skin irritation, and complications with asthma. From the property value perspective, moisture can lead to long-lasting, devastating, and costly damage.
If your property is susceptible to dampness, condensation, and excess moisture or already suffers from a mould infestation, you should book a mould removal this winter. During this, you’ll learn the root causes and ways to prevent moisture build-up and be offered professional support in removing the mould before it becomes hazardous to those who frequent the property.
Removing Mould Safely
If you’ve been struggling with indoor moisture levels or haven’t yet put active solutions to tackle humidity levels in place, the likelihood of mould forming increases exponentially the longer you leave it.
Once mould blotches have formed, they can be somewhat stubborn to remove. White vinegar is very effective because it kills and prevents spores from developing. You can use white vinegar without diluting it; just let it sit for an hour and scrub it off your surfaces.
Another beneficial agent is baking soda. It becomes a paste that can cover and dry out the growing mould when combined with water. An antifungal such as tea tree oil could also be used. Dilute half a teaspoon into a cup of water and put it into a spray bottle. Apply it to the mould and let it dry.
Some heavier infestations require commercial-grade removal products. These sprays typically contain fungicides that kill mould and prevent its return. Make sure to follow instructions carefully, and before starting the cleaning process, protect yourself by wearing PPE to avoid breathing in the spores and chemicals.
Final Thoughts
With the correct moisture control procedures and prevention measures, your property can again be a healthier and more comfortable living space this winter.
Remember that preventing moisture is the first step in avoiding issues, as it eliminates the conditions that allow mould to develop. Protect your property and well-being by taking a proactive stance today.
