Oh, damp! Looks like you’ve got yourself an uninvited guest at your place. Initially, they don’t bother you much. They’re kind of smelly, they mess up the walls, but you don’t mind too much. However, before you know it, you start not feeling your best, and under a microscope, your home’s structural integrity is also getting compromised.
Dampness isn’t something we should take lightly, for it isn’t merely an aesthetic setback – it’s a major problem. So, in this article, we’ll explain how best to spot it and fix it.
Common Signs of Damp
The signs of dampness aren’t always obvious, but it is one of those things that becomes quite evident once you know what to look for. If you notice any of the following, a thorough investigation is required:
1. Odours
Ever walked into a room and noticed a musty, earthy smell—kind of like wet soil or a clogged drain? If that odour lingers even after you’ve cleaned the space, it might be more than just a surface issue. It could be a sign of dampness hiding somewhere in your home.
2. Surface Damage
Moisture does a number on walls. The first signs are paint peeling off the walls or the wallpaper to start bubbling up. A classic sign of moisture working its way inside your wall and taking a toll on the surface.
3. Structural Issues
Take a close look at your wooden furniture and floorboards. Do they feel a little spongy or soft underfoot? Or perhaps you’re seeing signs of rot, like darkening or crumbling wood? These issues aren’t just cosmetic—they’re often caused by dampness creeping into the structure of your home. Wood is particularly vulnerable to moisture, and over time, it can cause serious damage if not dealt with quickly.
4. Condensation and Ventilation Problems
A little condensation on your windows during the colder months is totally normal, but if you’re constantly wiping down moisture from windows or mirrors, there could be a bigger issue at play. Excessive moisture buildup suggests that your home isn’t getting enough airflow.
5. Visible Dampness
Dark, wet spots on walls, particularly in corners or along the floor, are a major red flag. These patches can pop up in areas that are more prone to moisture, like basements or ground floors, where water can easily seep in.
6. Discolouration
Discolouration on your walls and ceiling is another giveaway, especially yellow, brown, or even greenish stains near the corners or along the bottom of the walls. These stains are a sign that moisture has been sitting there long enough to affect the paint and material.
What’s Causing the Damp?
Before tackling the issue of dampness, you must first know what causes it. There are three categories:
1. Rising Damp
2. Penetrating Damp
3. Condensation Damp
Let’s start with the first one. Rising dampness occurs when moisture from the ground starts to seep through the walls and floors and is often due to a missing or damaged damp-proof course (DPC).
Penetrating dampness is caused when water starts to seep through walls, roofs, or windows. This could also be due to a faulty guttering system, leaky roofs, or cracked walls.
Last but not least, condensation dampness occurs due to the creation of moisture. It happens when warm, moist air meets cold surfaces, leading to the formation of water droplets on windows, roofs, walls, etc. This usually occurs in kitchens, bathrooms, and poorly ventilated areas.
How to Fix Damp Problems
Hiring Damp Proofing Experts
In order to fix damp problems, it is important to understand that not everything can be a DIY project. Yes, some issues are DIY-friendly, but others? Not so much. If you’re dealing with extensive damage, persistent mould, or structural problems, it’s time to call in the experts. Damp-proofing specialists and roofing contractors have the tools and know-how to get the job done right.
With that out of the way, let’s take it step by step like the Pros:
Identifying the Root Cause
The very first step professionals take when addressing dampness is finding the root cause. What is the source of it all? Where does it come from? They will check for leaks, inspect the roof for damage, and assess wall and floor conditions. If the roof is cracked, roof repairs must be done. Furthermore, installing or repairing a damp-proof course is another solution, as it acts as a barrier that stops rising damp. Ideally, your home should already have one, but it can be installed later on as well.
Addressing Humidity and Ventilation
For areas that are high in humidity, like basements or laundry rooms, simply improving ventilation can make a difference. Something like a dehumidifier can also, surprisingly, do wonders—provided the dampness is at a controllable level.
Handling Mould
If you already have mould growing, clean it up thoroughly. A mix of water and vinegar or a specialised mould remover should do the trick. Again, for bigger infestations, it is best to hire pros for damp-proofing services.
Conclusion
Damp starts small but turns into a major headache, figuratively and literally, if left untreated. If any of the signs mentioned above start to appear, it is best to act fast; time is money here. Look for the root cause and eliminate it. If the problem seems to be bigger than what a DIY project can handle, seek professional assistance from damp-proofing specialists or roofing contractors for a helping hand. Keep your home safe and healthy, and the way to do that is by keeping it well-ventilated and free from dampness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is mould dangerous to health?
Yes, mould can cause respiratory issues, skin irritation, and exacerbate allergies. It’s essential to address mould growth ASAP to protect the health of your family and yourself.
What’s the best way to improve ventilation in my home?
Use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms, open windows regularly, and consider installing trickle vents in windows or air bricks in walls. Dehumidifiers can also help in high-humidity areas.
Are there any quick fixes for damping?
Quick fixes like painting over damp patches or using sealants might hide the problem temporarily, but they won’t address the underlying cause. However, this isn’t a solution in the long run.