Mindzle

Posts Tagged ‘property’

You’d be forgiven for thinking that people in the Western World live in relatively good conditions – but I bet most people didn’t know that around 40% of homes in the UK, Canada and across the EU are infected with damp and toxic mould.If you’ve moved home lately chances are you’ll have encountered at least one nightmare property infested with mould.  But most people aren’t even aware of the problem.Many people don’t even notice damp in its early stages as it is hidden in corners behind furniture or even inside the walls. 

Health problems
There are a number of frightening health issues caused by damp in the home.Many times people get hayfever-like symptoms as a result of damp – watery eyes, sneezing and nasal congestion.  But a recent study also showed it can cause asthma in children and certainly make things work for asthma sufferers.There have also been cases of serious respiratory illness arising from damp.  Another recent study even revealed a connection between mold and depression! 

Causes
How, then, does this fungal intruder enter your home?  Well the first thing to say is a bit of mould is entirely normal and can be found everywhere.However the major problems start when it’s left untreated and allowed to spread.Mold occurs when there too much moisture in the atmosphere and it has nowhere to escape.Water collects in the atmosphere from places like the bathroom, as well as condensation on windows.But it needs to go somewhere!Inadequate ventilation sometimes occurs because builders don’t take care to properly damp proof a new house.Another cause is when a house lacks proper air vents.And the more we are concerned about saving energy these days, the more we are tending to lock the air – and moisture – into our homes.

Dealing with damp
I hope I’ve managed to convince you that the threat of mold is a problem that shouldn’t be ignored – we should all be worried about preventing it. It’s not just for people who already have damp problems.Left unchecked it becomes a lot harder – and costlier – to deal with.  Here are some top tips on how to avoid damp buildup in your home or workplace:

1. Dry up any build up of condensation you notice around the house within 24-48 hours.Don’t forget – mold cannot survive without water in the atmosphere.
2. Ensure that you get proper ventilation in the building to give moisture an escape route.If there aren’t proper air vents to the outside, get them installed.
3. Consider getting insulation put in on cold surfaces prote to attracting condensation – such as piping, windows and roofs.
4. It’s well worth considering investing in one of the many dehumidifiers out there to remove moisture from the atmosphere.  Certain portable air conditioners also do the job, with the added bonus of keeping you cool in the summer.
5. Know your rights.Once mold problems get serious they can cause serious problems that could cost you a lot. Find out from your home insurance to see if your policy covers mold damage. Tenants should push their landlords to have a professional damp inspector visit and assess the house.