Although the cause of mould can vary, it is always fundamentally down to one thing: too much moisture causing growth.
From poor ventilation to drying washing inside, mould doesn’t need a big excuse to take up residence in your home. It can, however, have serious health consequences so it is important that you know how to deal with – and prevent – the problem.
What is mould?
Mould is a type of fungus that tends to develop in wet and humid settings. It isn’t fussy and can pop up all over your home. Mould tends to vary in appearance but is often black or brown and it gives off a distinct, stale smell. The problem with mould is that, once it develops in your home, it is likely to spread. Mould carries through the air via tiny spores, settling in moist spots such as around windows and in corners of rooms, or areas where external walls are damp because of a leak. Areas like basements, bathrooms, kitchens, and lofts are prime spots for mould, along with materials such as wood, wallpaper, or leather that retain moisture.
Why is mould so bad?
Apart from looking and smelling unpleasant, mould isn’t great for your health, particularly for those with respiratory problems and allergies, as it produces allergens and toxic substances. People who live in mouldy conditions can experience wheezing, sneezing and coughing as well as itchy skin, red, itchy eyes and runny nose.
Getting rid of mould
The problem with mould is that it can keep returning, so conventional cleaning products aren’t enough to fix the problem. Specialist mould removers and anti-fungal sprays are required to get rid of the mould in the first place. If the job seems too daunting or your mould problem is beyond your control, it may be wise to call a professional cleaner or mould specialist to help you to get the problem under control.
Preventing mould
To prevent mould, you need to get a handle on the moisture levels in your home.
- Improve ventilation by opening windows when you can. Use extractor fans when you are in the bathroom or kitchen, and if condensation continues to be a problem, invest in a dehumidifier.
- Open the curtains! Mould doesn’t just thrive in the damp, it likes the dark, too. Natural sunlight will help to prevent the build up.
- Keep on top of leaks – if you notice that a tile is missing or broken, or your render is cracked, call a roofer or builder as soon as you can. Once the damp gets into your property, it is much harder to deal with.
- Try not to dry laundry inside. That is, of course, easier said than done when it has been wet for months, but drying indoors adds significantly to your humidity. If you must dry indoors, do it in a smaller space, such as your bathroom, with a dehumidifier on, or invest in a heated and covered drying rack.
- Get a damp survey – if you can’t get the problem under control, get professional advice to help you identify and treat the cause of the problem.