For many, a cold damp home is a reality. But how can you transform your home into a warm and inviting environment? Cowan Building takes a look at damp homes, and why it so important to tackle this problem head-on.
Damp, mouldy homes are a major concern for many families. These dwellings can not only be miserable to live in, and also make you and your family very sick, particularly during the cooler months. Improving the dampness of your home will leave you with a warm, healthy home, plus; it will also add a huge amount of value.
When it comes to damp draughty homes, the longer you leave these issues, the worst they will become. For landlords, ensuring your investment is kept warm, draught-free, and dry is imperative to continue the value of your rental home.
Common Symptoms of a Damp Unhealthy Home
· A cold and damp feeling in the home
· Mould or mildew on walls, ceilings, and floors
· Musty smell
· Black Mould
· Excessive condensation or constant crying windows
· Peeling wallpaper
· Mould in house
· Mould on the back of curtains and window coverings
The first step to creating a healthy dry home is to find the source of the dampness. It could be caused by bad insulation, lack of ventilation, or a leak of some type. Some damp homes will need expert advice to fix the problem, while others could have some simple adjustments to help. Toxic mould can cause a huge host of medical problems, ensuring this is prevented is paramount for the health of your family.
Tips to Help prevent Damp Homes
Use extractor fans for tumble dryers and when cooking
Dry clothes washing outside and not on clotheslines inside the home
Always use the fan when showering or bathing or consider installing a shower-dome
Remove mould and do not allow it to spread.
Air your home – open windows and doors – and don’t forget the cupboards.
Do not leave the mattress’ laying directly on the floor.
Consider using a dehumidifier during the cooler months to extract the moisture from the air.
Ensure your extractor fans do not resend the air back into the home or the ceiling. Ducting to the outside is best.
Clean filters regularly on fans and heat pumps.
Clean gutters and downpipes to prevent water backwashing into the roof.
Consider your surface water drainage
Water causes dampness so it’s also important to check any possible leaking areas. These could be around your shower or bath. Also, check hot water cylinders for any leaks. If you do suspect that your home could have water damage inside the walls it’s important to have this professionally checked.
Mould can quickly build behind walls giving a false sense of security that all is well. It may be advised to conduct a moisture test of your home and to find the cause of the issue. With many New Zealand homes falling into the leaky-home category the sooner the true issue is discovered and fixed the better. Leaky homes will only get worst in time, leaving you with a costly bill and an investment you possibly can’t sell.
Taking notes after a big downpour can also help. Do you have drainage problems outside? Or the gutters are overflowing? Does the musky smell get worst after the rain? Finding the real issue affecting the dampness of your home is vital in ensuring you fix the entire problem. Band-Aid solutions may temporally fix your issue, however, if there is a leak lurking in your roof or walls it is best to call in the experts and get some professional advice.
A damp home is an unhealthy home and can lead to health problems. Finding a solution, and encouraging simple ventilation tips can help increase your home health, prevent mould growth, and protect the wellbeing of your family.