Winter Is Coming: How to Prepare Your Home for Damp Issues

As the colder months approach, many homeowners in the UK face problems with damp and mould as condensation increases. Excess moisture can cause serious issues like peeling paint, musty smells and even structural damage if left unchecked. Follow these tips to protect your home this winter.

Check for Signs of Damp

Start by inspecting your home for any visible signs of dampness. Look for peeling wallpaper, mould growth on walls and ceilings, musty odours and stained areas on surfaces. Condensation on windows, especially in corners, is also an indicator. Feel for colder spots on walls that may be prone to damp. Finding issues early makes them easier to address.

Improve Ventilation

One of the main causes of increased household damp in winter is inadequate ventilation. Water vapour from cooking, bathing, clothes drying and even breathing builds up indoors. Proper air circulation removes this excess moisture. Open the windows for a few minutes each day if possible. Use extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms when in use and for 30 minutes afterwards. Position furniture away from walls so air can flow behind it.

Insulate and Draught-Proof

Having proper insulation will help keep warmth inside your home, preventing condensation forming on cold surfaces. Insulate lofts to 270mm depth and cavities in walls if possible. Draught-proof doors, windows and openings like chimneys to stop warm air escaping and cold air entering. But take care not to block ventilation. DIY draught excluders, flexible sealant strips and door brushes can help.

Control Moisture

Simple daily habits can significantly cut down moisture produced in your home. Dry clothes outdoors or in a ventilated room instead of on radiators. Keep kitchen and bathroom doors closed when cooking, washing or showering to stop steam reaching other rooms. House plants, especially when grouped together, increase condensation levels, but some can also reduce humidity levels, like snake plants, aloe vera, peace lilies, and Boston ferns.

Treat Affected Areas

If damp patches do develop, treat them promptly. Wipe down windows and sills to remove condensation each morning. Scrub off mould growth immediately with fungicidal wash (a dilute solution of bleach and water works well). Allow damp patches on walls to fully dry then redecorate using mould-resistant paint. Water-damaged plaster may need replacing. A dehumidifier can help lower moisture in individual rooms.

Use Moisture-Absorbing Products

Special products help absorb excess household moisture and prevent musty odours. Place bowls of granulated salt crystals in damp rooms to draw in water vapour. Floating dehumidifier balls are also effective for closets, wardrobes and other enclosed spaces. Unscented moisture-absorbent crystals can be hidden in fabric pouches.

Monitor and Maintain

Keep regularly checking your home even once you tackle any issues. Damp can return quickly if ventilation is inadequate. Wipe surfaces and clean the rear of fridges, washing machines and other condensed areas weekly. Ensure vents remain unblocked. Reapply sealant and draught proofing when needed. A few simple steps now will help keep your home damp-free this winter, but if you spot any major issues, give us a call today.