Page 11 - City Life Magazine - Spring 2023 Edition

www.worcester.gov.uk 11

HOUSING
Dealing with damp

Most homes suffer from damp to some degree, but the good news
is that it can usually be dealt with by making a few simple changes.

However, if the problem is excessive, it could be caused by issues
such as poor insulation, leaking gutters or downpipes, or inefficient

heating systems and will need repair by a trusted tradesperson.

TIPS TO AVOID
DAMP AND MOULD

• Cover pans when
cooking. This will also
help to save money on
your energy bills.
CONDENSATION PENETRATING DAMP issues, including breathing • Dry clothes outdoors
This is caused when water Penetrating damp is when illnesses. It can be removed or put them in the
vapour in the house comes water makes its way into a with diluted bleach or a bathroom with the
into contact with a cold building from the outside, special fungicidal wash – door closed and
surface, such as a mirror, such as from leaking always use protection such window open. Tumble
window or uninsulated rainwater pipes, damaged as rubber gloves and safety dryers should have
solid wall. Water vapour roofing, gaps around glasses. Specialist paint can outside ventilation.
is produced by cooking, window frames, or defective be applied to help delay the • Keep kitchen and
drying clothes indoors rendering and brickwork. growth of mould. bathroom doors shut to
or bathing. Usually, stop moisture moving
condensation occurs RISING DAMP PREVENTION around your house.
during cold weather in This can occur in solid walls There are several ways you • After having a bath
places where there is little or cavity walls if the damp can prevent damp and or shower, keep the
air movement. course fails. Ground water mould problems in your bathroom door closed
rises through the walls of home – by ensuring that and the window open
your house creating a ‘tide your house is adequately until all moisture
mark’ up to one metre from heated, is well-insulated and is gone.
the floor. draught-proofed, and is also • Use an extractor fan or
well ventilated, allowing air open a window in the
MOULD circulation throughout. If kitchen while cooking
Damp or condensation windows have trickle vents, • Do not block air or
can cause mould growth, make sure these are opened trickle vents in windows.
appearing as a patch of and fans are turned on in Wiping down windows
little black dots. A build-up bathrooms and kitchens and sills in the morning
of mould can cause health while in use. will also help, but
be sure to wring out
the cloth rather than
Help is available dry it on a radiator.
Dehumidifiers may
Act on Energy is a Midlands-based charity offering free also help but increase
energy advice and support. energy costs.
• Position furniture
✆ Freephone: 0800 988 2881 (Mon-Fri 9am – 5pm) against internal walls
actonenergy.org.uk where possible.

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