If you are a homeowner in London, you won’t need to be reminded that damp is a constant threat to your home, largely due to the fact that the Thames Valley basin holds water in many places. Endless cloudy days means the ground does not dry out and moisture can rise up buildings and cause significant damage.
It makes sense for homeowners to be proactive, and with that in mind, here are a few cost-effective strategies to reduce or prevent damp and mould.
- Damp inspections – Look no further than London Damp Surveys for a professional damp assessment that covers every aspect of the building. It is wise to order a damp survey before winter arrives, so that you are fully prepared for the cold season. Our fully qualified surveyors use cutting-edge technology to help them accurately measure a building for moisture levels, mould and timber rot. Many of our clients are homeowners who have their property surveyed on annual basis, as damp and mould can arise at any time.
- Heat the whole house – Even though energy is very expensive, it is advisable to turn on the central heating at least one time per week, make sure that all radiators are on and this will prevent damp or mould from getting to work. Of course, this won’t be necessary if the temperatures reach 25C, as they might in the summer months. If you don’t have central heating, use a portable electric heater to dry out the air in all rooms, keeping humidity down to a level not higher than 60%.
- Generate a positive airflow – Ventilation is essential to ensure that damp cannot exist, humid air enables mould to establish itself, then the organism releases minute spores. Opening a few windows will generate an airflow, while installing extractor fans in the kitchen and bathrooms and make sure you make the air circulate at least once a week.
- Remove kitchen and bathroom condensation – When you take a hot bath/shower, water droplets will form on all surfaces, which is perfectly normal; when you dry yourself, turn on the extractor fan and open a window. Keep the door closed until the condensation has dissipated and this prevents excess moisture from getting into the house. When cooking, turn on the canopy fan and open windows, which greatly reduces condensation; keep a dry cloth in the bathroom and mop up condensation when you notice it.
- Add extra loft insulation – Heat rises and loft insulation is critical; make sure you have two layers of fibreglass insulation between the joists and this will slow down the heat loss, saving money on energy costs and keeping the interior temperature a little higher. Wall insulation is also important; cavity walls can be injected with a special foam that insulates the interior.
If you would like one of our certified surveyors to inspect your London home, call London Damp Surveys on 0207 305 5997 or fill in the online form. The peace of mind you receive is worth the small cost of a professional damp, mould and timber rot survey, don’t delay, call today.
