Damp is one of the worst parts of property maintenance. Unfortunately, damp is a common occurrence popping up seemingly everywhere. The second, we spot damp we want to deal with and in this guide will show exactly how to do that. From knowing where to look for it so you can fix it as soon as possible to clearing it and preventing it from coming back this guide covers everything you need to know.
Spotting Damp Early
Catching damp early will help you deal with it more easily. To spot damp before it grows into a larger scale problem you need to know where to look out for it. A good place to start is your walls, hold your hand on the wall and look for patches which feel cold or damp. Curling wallpaper and flaking paint can also be a sign of damp which is visible alongside specks of mould. For your ceiling look for discolouration particularly next to external corners. Bathrooms and kitchens are other prominent spots for damp and mould. Check the ceiling and walls as described above as well as grout and inside cupboards. Condensation and puddles of water on your window sills could be either a sign of damp or a potential cause. Mould can appear on window frames and on the sealant used around their edges.
Removing Mould
To start your damp repair, use a mould removing solution and a sponge or cloth. Scrubbing away the mould is only part of the solution. You are still left with stains and the threat of the mould returning. Once you have cleared away the mould you should prioritise fixing the source. Damp occurs when warm moist air comes in contact with cold surfaces. Good ventilation and using a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture will take care of some of the problems. Secondly, keep your home warm to further mitigate damp occurring.
Repairing Damp Damage
Following this clear away any mould and allow the area to dry. Once dry you can repaint the area if applicable using damp seal paint. Stain blocker paint will help prevent any stains from coming through the new coat. For grout areas remove the mould, this may be sufficient. If, however, some mould stains remain on the sealant which cannot be removed, cut out the sealant. Replace the sealant with a mould-resistant alternative using a sealant gun.
Damp Proofing
More extreme damp proofing measures such as damp-proof membranes – a waterproof barrier placed under concrete floors – require specialist installation. Having a damp proof course was not placed into building regulations until 1875 so older buildings may not have them. However, more recent buildings have waterproof barriers in the external walls to prevent rising damp getting into the internal walls.
Property Maintenance
Before we summarise this guide on repairing damp, it is important to mention that some of the tips in this post apply to a variety of property maintenance. Spotting damage early whether it is damp, or a kitchen sink leap is vitally important. Of course, repairs are specific to the situation and may require you to call a property maintenance company but, as with damp, taking preventative measures is often an option.
Nobody wants to deal with damp (which is why we started with spotting it early before it becomes a problem) but sometimes it goes unnoticed and sneaks up on you. Leaving it unattended will only enable it to grow and for the damage to increase until you have a far bigger problem to deal with. With the tips in this guide, you will be able to spot, fix and prevent damp far easier in future.
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