January… The month people are more likely to face damp and condensation in their homes.
Damp problems in the home are very common during winter months. There can be a significant difference in temperature between the cold outdoors and the warmth inside a home, and this can lead to condensation.
Moisture can also seep through windows and walls, creating damp problems which can lead to issues such rot and mould.
When left untreated, damp can spread throughout a property and could cause some serious health issues, particularly for asthma and allergy sufferers.
Damp can also cause the deterioration of timber frames, which can lead to further leaks and ultimately cause them to rot and require replacement.
Here are a few methods on how to keep damp at bay
Ventilate rooms: By simply opening your windows, you will be ventilating your rooms by keeping air flowing, preventing the build up of humidity and reduce the likelihood of damp and condensation.
Extractor Fans: Humid areas such as the kitchen and bathroom should always have an extractor fan. This helps to prevent moisture building up by evacuating moisture laden air outside quickly.
Heating: Use low levels of heat all day long rather than short bursts of high heat when you are in the house.
Insulation: By insulating the internal surface of cold outside walls and insulating your loft, winter condensation and dampness can be mitigated to a considerable extent.
Draught-proofing: While drafts can make rooms to feel cold, it is important to ensure you do not block any vents for long periods of time, where there is condensation or mould problem.
Damp Proofing: Here at Peter Cox, we use our DryWall remedial damproof course system. This is inserted into the mortar joint and forms a water-repellent barrier to Rising Damp
If you need any help with damp, visit our damp proofing page, or give us a call on 0808 271 6433 to speak to a member of our professional team and book a survey. Our experienced damp specialists will be able to analyse your situation and provide you with the most effective damp proofing treatments tailored to your property.