The UK winters are legendary; while we don’t have much snow, we do experience heavy rain and damp conditions, which seem to go on forever. Damp and mould are a very real threat to London properties and in this short article, we offer useful information on how to inspect your home for damp and mould prior to the freezing winter months.
Exterior inspection
The damp proof course is close to the ground level; a thick bitumen strip that is inserted between brick courses during the initial build and this DPC membrane prevents moisture from attacking the building. Check all walls close to ground level, looking for crumbling mortar and moss growth; take a screwdriver to poke the mortar to see if it is crumbling and should you notice damp is present, book a damp inspection with London Damp Surveys.
Roof inspection
Of course, the roof on your house is not exactly accessible, yet it does need to be inspected on a regular basis; missing or broken roof tiles leave the internal roof structure open to water damage, while the soffit and fascia boards should be firmly in place, as they protect the roof line from rain penetration. Guttering should be free from obstructions, as this is a crucial escape route for excess rainwater; wet leaves and small twigs can cause a blockage, so make sure the channel is free from all objects. Take a flashlight and climb into the loft, examining all timbers for signs of damp, mould and timber rot.
Interior inspection
Check all walls and ceilings looking for damp patches, tide marks and other signs of damp, including condensation, which forms when there is excessive moisture in the air; another reason for condensation is when extreme temperatures meet on a surface like walls or glass. Check the integrity of all timber window and door frames, looking for signs of woodworm, wet and dry rot.
Penetrating damp
Damp that penetrates exterior walls is a very real threat to London homes, therefore, you should regularly inspect the exterior walls, looking for signs of damp presence. Driving rain can erode masonry and mortar and over time, this can lead to moisture penetrating into the building. If damp reaches the interior walls, you might notice peeling wallpaper and bubbling paintwork.
Professional damp inspections
At London Damp Surveys, we are proud to serve all London Boroughs by providing professional damp, mould and timber rot inspections to London home and business owners. This is the best way to ensure that your home is free of damp, mould and timber rot; you receive a detailed written report within 24 hours of survey completion and if you are planning to make an offer on a London property, it is paramount to have the structure surveyed for damp issues.
Call us on 0207 305 5997 or fill in the form on this website and find out for sure whether or not your home is under attack from moisture.
