Don't Let Summer Damp Put a Damper on Your Health
Posted on 28th June 2024 at 12:54
Finally, there’s been a bit of light and warmth. Summer is here, time to fling open the windows for its fleeting visit. Surely this time of year you don’t have to worry about things like damp or mould. The weather is far too dry and warm for that. And yet, there’s a large damp patch on the wall of your landing.
Don't assume dampness disappears with warmer weather. In fact, summer can create ideal conditions for mould growth, a nasty side effect of damp that can wreak havoc on your health and your home.
Why Summer Damp is a Threat
It’s easy, and perhaps comforting, to only associate damp with rainy and cold winters. Summer, however, heralds in a slew of other damp-causers. Here are just a few:
• High Humidity: Warm air holds more moisture, making condensation a bigger problem. This can happen when warm air hits cooler surfaces inside your home, causing droplets to form.
• Drying Clothes Indoors: Moist laundry adds significantly to indoor humidity, creating a breeding ground for mould.
• Closed Windows: Keeping cool air in often means keeping warm, humid air in too.
The Mould Menace
Mould thrives in damp environments. It can spread quickly on walls, ceilings, and behind furniture, releasing spores that you can breathe in. This can trigger respiratory problems like coughs, wheezing, and even asthma attacks.
Not only is this irritating, but it can become a persistent problem and detrimental to your long-term health.
Spotting the Signs of Summer Damp
You might not be on the lookout for damp, mould, and condensation. However it is worthwhile knowing the signs of summer damp:
• Damp patches and musty smells: These are telltale signs of excess moisture. You can often feel it biting at the back of your throat.
• Condensation on windows: Particularly in the mornings, condensation indicates high humidity levels.
• Visible mould growth: This can appear as black, green, or brown patches on walls, ceilings, or furniture.
Combating Summer Damp
There are few things more irritating or worrying than finding damp in the home. Don't let summer damp win! Here are some steps you can take:
• Increase Ventilation: Open windows regularly, especially during warm mornings and evenings.
• Invest in Dehumidifiers: These handy devices remove excess moisture from the air.
• Dry Clothes Outdoors: If possible, ditch the indoor drying rack and take advantage of the summer sunshine.
• Fix Leaks Promptly: Don't delay repairing leaky pipes or damaged roofs – even small leaks can contribute to damp.
• Improve Insulation: Proper insulation helps regulate temperature and prevent condensation.
If the Damp Persists
If you're struggling to control damp or suspect a more serious issue like rising damp (where moisture seeps up from the ground), seek professional help from a qualified surveyor or damp specialist.
By taking action against summer damp, you can create a healthier and happier home environment for you and your family.
If you’d like to discuss professional damp proofing for your property, or to book a damp survey, call us on 01604 380 930. Or email us at info@srgillbuilders.co.uk.
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