How can I reduce damp and mould in your home?

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How can you reduce damp and mold in your home?

Thanks for asking. According to Dr. Yasemin Didem Aktas, Deputy Academic Director of the UK Centre for Moisture in Buildings, mold is everywhere all the time. This is because the UK is a pretty wet country and so some level of mold, particularly in damp places like bathrooms or windows, is to be expected. However, it's how we manage the mold and prevent it building up to dangerous levels that is important.

When is there too much?

If you notice patches of mold on walls or ceilings, then it's time to do something to stop spores spreading in the air. You might not be able to see mold, but if you can smell it, then that's also a good indication that it's growing in a concealed place and you should also take action. If you can smell it, there's definitely a damp problem, even if that's not manifested on the interior surfaces, says Aktas. Why is mold bad for your health? Research has shown that living in an environment with mold can have a negative impact on your health. It is known that living or working in a building with moisture damage can cause asthma, asthma exasperation, allergic alveotis, and increased susceptibility to respiratory infection, says Jonny Lohi, a pathologist at the University of Helsinki in The Guardian. He goes on to say that other symptoms have been reported, including eye, ear and skin irritation. There are also indications of a link between moisture damage or microbial exposure to neurological symptoms and fatigue. Although those who have pre-existing respiratory symptoms, children or the elderly, are most at risk, it's still important to deal with mold in your home.

How can I treat mold? Well, cleaning mold can offer a temporary solution. You need to address what's causing the issue. It could be caused by too much water vapour, too little ventilation or water might be seeping in from a leaking pipe or damaged roof or some other source in your home. It's important to identify the source of the problem in order to fix it. For mold that is already present, it needs to be cleaned away.

It's best not to use a brush or dry cloth as you'll disperse the spores and painting over it will not help either. One of the best solutions is using a mold spray that contains biocides, such as DDAC, about one or two percent. But be careful not to inhale it, get it on your skin, expose it to pets or pour it into a river. What else can I do to prevent mold? According to Aktas, no insulation without ventilation. Because although insulating your home is good for making it warmer, if there's no ventilation, then the risk of damp and mold developing increases. Ventilation is therefore key whether it's opening a window or using an extractor fan or other ventilation. Even a dehumidifier can help although it's not ideal. There you have it.

Now you know how to reduce damp and mold in your home. In under three minutes, we answer your questions and help you understand the true meaning behind the trends, concepts and acronyms that are making headlines. Listen along and you really will know for sure.

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