With cold weather comes condensation, which often makes homes damp bringing with it the threat of mould.
As well as being an eyesore and a general nuisance, mould can cause and worsen health issues and is especially bad for people with respiratory problems such as asthma, or are suffering from a cold, flu, or Covid-19.
One way to dry out the air indoors is to put the heating on – but the energy bill crisis means that this will cost you more than a pretty penny.
In fact, rising energy costs have pushed inflation to a 40-year high and it’s likely to get worse as prices have already risen by 1.1% in the year to October.
Ensure a steady flow of fresh air
Mould thrives in stagnant air, so it’s important that you allow fresh air to flow into your home as frequently as possible.
In the winter months, this can be particularly difficult since it’s so cold outside so instead of opening your windows all at once, try allowing the air in in intermittent periods room by room.
Rooms that are prone to damp like bathrooms and kitchens should have the window open whenever they’re in use.
Locate and fix any leaks
Inspect your roof, sinks, boiler and pipes to check that everything is sealed correctly and there is no room for moisture to leak.
If you suspect there’s a leak somewhere but you can’t find it, it might be worth getting a specialist out to take a look.
According to CheckaTrade, water leak detection services cost an average of £500 in the UK— that’s a lot of money but you might end up spending loads more in the long run, as an unattended leak will wreak havoc on your water bill.
Use mould-preventing paint
Anti-mould paints are available at most DIY stores and they do a pretty good job at preventing mould, providing you take other measures to keep a room well-ventilated.
If you’re renting, you can ask your landlord if the paint in your bathroom in anti-mould. If it isn’t, you’re well within your rights to ask them to paint over with the good stuff, since keeping a property clear of mould is their legal responsibility and a duty of care.
Homeowners should top up their anti-mould paint about every six years.
