Damp prevention is at the top of the list for homeowners whose properties are prone to the effects of dampness as the cold, wet winter months set in.
Managing the environment at home and combatting the sources of dampness is a challenge that only increases as the temperatures drop and the weather patterns predominately come from the north.
So, we have put together an 11-point plan for damp prevention to help you prepare your house for the winter and stave off the ill effects of dampness.
1. Guttering and Drainage
Take some time to do a sweep of your property to ensure that all your drainpipes and guttering are clear of leaves and other debris. While this is never a pleasant task, it can be helpful to brave the elements during a heavy downpour and assess if your drains are in full working order.
Any blockages can lead to water overflowing, increasing the risk of penetrating damp, attacking your home and causing internal problems.
2. Roof Inspection
If you can, try to inspect your roof or bring in an expert to assess it. You are on the lookout for any missing or damaged tiles. The rain or snow will penetrate the gaps in your roof, allowing the moisture to trickle down into your property, creating the ideal conditions for penetrating damp.
3. Window and Door Seals
Take a tour of your windows and doors, checking the seals around each. You are looking for any signs of wear and tear or gaps that have appeared that could allow cold air or moisture into your property, which could lead to condensation or dampness.
4. External Walls
Again, if possible, take a tour of the outside of your building, looking at your external walls. Be on the lookout for any cracks or holes in the walls that need to be repaired.
Any weakness in your walls can be attacked by rainwater that can cause dampness in your house. If you can’t repair this immediately, bring in an expert to help, but leave it all winter, or it will only get worse.
5. Ventilation
Proper ventilation and good airflow around your property is crucial to preventing dampness. If you have them, ensure the extractor fans in your kitchen and bathrooms operate effectively. It may be a case in which you need to install air bricks or vents to increase the airflow.
6. Damp Proof Course
Most properties across the UK will have a damp-proof course installed – a protective barrier to prevent the movement of water rising from the ground into your interior walls.
It is important to check this hasn’t been compromised by a raised flowerbed or adapted driveway. If you have to, bring in a specialist to put your mind at rest.
7. Plumbing
This may take investigation, and you will likely need to dig out that torch from the spare cupboard, but check out the plumbing around your house. You are looking for leaks at the apparent intersections and taps where weaknesses may be.
Many of these can go unseen under the floorboards or in cupboards, but they provide the perfect conditions for dampness to flourish.
8. Flooring
Assess the flooring and skirting boards around your property. You are looking for signs of dampness or rot that could signify a more severe problem behind. You are on the lookout for flaking paint and warped or bubbling flooring.
9. Basement/Crawlspace
If you have a property with a basement or crawlspace, this area must be properly ventilated and waterproofed to prevent moisture build-up. These underground spaces are the perfect breeding ground for wet and dry rot to attack your timber.
10. Condensation
As the temperature drops outside, it is vital to ensure the areas in your house prone to high moisture content, like your bathroom and kitchen, have good airflow to reduce the chances of condensation.
11. Heating
Maintaining a consistent temperature around your property is vital as this helps reduce the chances of condensation. You don’t need it to be too high, but fluctuations cause a build-up of moisture, leading to dampness.
Some of these measures can be easily implemented, but others might require a little assistance. However, making them a regular part of your property checks leading into and during winter will help you avoid dampness this winter.
Speak to our team for more information, or download our guide.