Moisture and dampness are key ingredients that help mould form and grow.
Here are some easy steps you can take to keep your home dry:
Air it out: Open windows, doors and vents to let fresh air flow through your home. Good ventilation helps dry out dampness. Maintaining a constant background heat will help you do this without your home getting cold. See cross ventilation information below.
Fixing leaks: If you find any leaks, like from pipes or roofs, give us a call to get them fixed. Leaks make things wet and can cause mould. If you have a repair need, please do not hesitate to report it.
Use lids: Cover pots and pans when you cook to keep moisture from spreading in your kitchen.
Dry clothes well: Try to avoid drying clothes indoors. We realise this can be difficult with Welsh weather the way it is, so if you have to, use a room with good airflow or a dehumidifier.
Wipe down: After a shower or cooking, wipe surfaces dry to stop moisture from sticking around.
Use fans: Turn on extractor fans in the kitchen and bathroom to suck out humid air. Let these run for 20 minutes after you’ve finished your activity to let the steam escape. Did you know that regularly running your fan costs just a few pence a day? This small cost could save you money in the long term and protect your health.
Warm rooms: Keeping your home warm helps keep it dry. Cold places can collect moisture.
Keep vents clear: Keep air vents clear so air can move around and stop dampness.
Dehumidify: If your home feels too humid, a dehumidifier can help take away extra moisture.
Create space: Allow air to circulate around furniture and in cupboards –make sure cupboards and wardrobes aren’t overfilled and there is space between the furniture and the wall.
Keep clean: Regular cleaning helps prevent mould. Scrub mouldy spots with soap and water and keep things tidy.
Remember, a dry home is a happy home. It keeps you healthy and stops mould from growing.
You said to open a window, but how long should I leave it open?
We know that it can be difficult to decide how long to keep windows and doors open, and there is a lot of confusing advice out there on this subject.
Below we explain the best way to use your windows to reduce dampness and humidity.
Cross ventilation
Cross ventilation is a form of natural ventilation that allows air to enter one side of a room and out another. Ideally, cross ventilation uses air-driven force to bring cooler air from outside and replace the stale, warm interior air.
Do not leave your windows open for extended periods of times as this will result in excessive heat loss, instead open windows for “short, sharp bursts” of around 15 minutes every few hours to allow purge ventilation, especially first thing in the morning to remove the stale air produced overnight.
As per the diagram above, opening windows at opposite ends of the property to allow cross flow is recommended.
Download our keeping dry checklist here
