It is that time of year again when we should be pulling on the woolly jumpers, hats, scarfs and gloves to keep warm and getting ready for the cold, wet and windy months ahead. Many homes suffer from some form of dampness and combined with poor heat retention, results in a greater chance of people living there catching a cold or flu as well as agitating asthmatic problems.
Our Timberwise experts have come up with a few top tips to share with you, on not only how to keep warm (when the cooler months arrive!) but also on keeping the air in your property dry, warm and pollution-free.
Ways to keep humidity levels down
- Using a vented dryer to dry clothes or visiting the local laundrette – avoid drying clothes on radiators
- Placing lids on pans whilst cooking food
- Opening windows for an hour or longer on warmer days if possible. When this is not possible to leave windows on ‘trickle’ to allow airflow
- Check to make sure there is suitable drainage around the house to handle any extra rainfall
- Making sure all water leaks from plumbing, guttering etc. are repaired
- Keeping the windows open in the bathroom and kitchen or use extractor fans if they are fitted
- Using a roof ventilation system can help reduce condensation
Ways to keep the warmth in
- Use draft excluders for the front and back door
- Install insulation in the loft to keep the heat in and reduce heating costs
- Put up lined curtains and draw them earlier in the evenings to keep heat in
- Install double glazing, if you have not already done but remember to use the ‘trickle’ facility to keep air flowing!
Ways to keep fresh air circulating
- Airing the house out when possible
- Using less strong-smelling cleaners and air fresheners
- Keep on top of the dusting using micro-fibre cloths and vacuum regularly
- If you are a smoker or have smokers within the property, smoke outside the house
- Using central heating or electric heaters rather than log burners and gas fires
- For wooden or laminated flooring use large rugs or installing under floor insulation
What are the consequences?
Lack of ventilation can have serious consequences, causing problems such as condensation and black spot mould. The mould is easily identified by black spotting across walls and ceilings as well as a musty smell. With high levels of moisture, it can cause wallpaper/decoration to peel and wither causing it to be unsightly.
Did you know?
Moulds produce allergens and toxic substances. Inhaling or touching mould spores may cause an allergic reaction, such as sneezing, a runny nose, red eyes and skin rash and in some serious cases asthma attacks.
Black spot mould found in a family home
We were recently called to a family home who had noticed black spot mould growing. Although the building was structurally sound, the mould needed to be removed as to not create any further problems in the home or health problems for the occupants.
Timberwise suggested a Mould Removal and Prevention Kit, designed to help you remove black mould and prevent it from returning on walls, ceilings, window reveals, frames, doors, skirting boards etc.
Where can I find expert advice?
For help and advice about on reducing the risk of condensation, check out what is condensation page. Alternatively, you can speak directly to your local Timberwise office on 0800 288 8660.
Originally published 7th October 2017, updated 7th August 2019.
