Damp solutions - DIY tips

Do you need some DIY hints and tips for preventing damp problems in your property? Peter Cox have prepared four simple steps you can follow to stop damp becoming a problem in your property.

Read on the get expert advice from the damp proofing professionals.

Damp issues that require skilled procedures, such as installing a damp-proof course or waterproof membrane, should only be undertaken by a professional. However,  there are a load of DIY hints and tips that can eliminate problems like mould and condensation without the need for calling the pros.

Condensation is simply the process of  warm, moist air settling on cold surfaces like windows or a cold wall. So one of the easiest ways to combat it is to maintain a constant temperature and relative humidity in your home.

Maintaining the temperature in your property can be done programming your central heating to run at a lower temperature for longer periods, thereby avoiding sudden peaks and drops in temperature that come from turning the heating on when its cold.

Achieving relative humidity is harder but far from impossible. This is simply the concept of keeping moisture levels your properties atmosphere as consistent as possible. The following lifestyle changes can really help with this:

• Turn on any extractor fans when cooking or showering
• Check that washing machines and dryers are properly vented
• Open windows as often as possible
• Avoid producing lots of moisture
• laundry in tumble dryer
• Avoid drying wet clothes on radiators or indoor rails
• Covering pans with a lid whilst cooking
• Leave a gap between furniture and external walls

On top of these tips, using a dehumidifier will help to remove excess moisture from the air, leaving your home feeling warmer and more comfortable. Anti-condensation paints are also available. These thermal paints keep external walls at a warmer temperature than normal and contain glass microbeads that prevent condensation forming.

One of the most common symptoms of a condensation problem is black mould. This mould tends to grow on paint and wallpaper where condensation has settled. Even after the source of you condensation problem has been fixed, the ugly stains left behind still need removed. Fortunately, black mould removal is a pretty simple task and if you follow the correct procedures,  you can get rid of the mould and stop it from returning.

The first thing to do is allow the mould to dry out and this will happen naturally by following the DIY condensation tips above. Then is simply a case of applying mould remover which is easily bought online or from leading DIY shops. If you follow the instructions on your selected mould cleaner correctly you should be able to wipe away the satins before leaving the treated space to dry. Once the surface is clean and dry you can apply paint to restore the surface to is former glory.

Mould removing treatment is also available for other places that attract mould from condensation such as grout and mastic seals. Following the instructions on the packaging, remove as much of the mould as possible. Sealant will often stain beyond the point of cleaning, in this case we would recommend removing the sealant and replacing it with a specifically formulated mould-resistant sealant.

At Peter Cox we are firm believers that regular property maintenance is the best way to avoid damp. Damp problems often occur due to long term water ingress from simple property maintenance issues such as:

• Blocked and broken guttering
• Damaged downpipes
• Blocked airbricks
• Broken ventilation fans
• Leaking pipes
• Leaks from baths, showers and washing machines

All of the problems above can be spotted through regular checks and maintenance and in many cases can be fixed by a competent DIY enthusiast.  If you check your roof regularly for damage, keep gutters clear, inspect the pointing and brickwork you can avoid serious penetrating damp problems in the future.

Peter Cox have been treating damp problems professionally since 1951 and in that time we have build up a wealth of experience when it comes to damp and damp proofing. We have shared that knowledge throughout our site and you can learn more by clicking the links below…

If you have read through our DIY tips and feel you need a professional opinion then do not delay in contacting one of our expert team. If you want to speak to someone about a particular damp problem in your property then call us to talk to one of our trained and experienced staff who offer help and advice.

You can also click the button below to book a survey online.