When damp and mould appear in your home it can usually be rectified if the problem is caught early, however leaving it to progress can in fact have a negative effect on your health. It’s likely that most homes will experience mould and damp in some sense, caused by the amount of rainfall the UK receives as well as moisture that’s produced around the home.
But can it affect your health? Read on for a little more insight.
How does damp and mould appear?
Damp and mould can appear for several reasons and thrives in areas where moisture is in the air, such as leaking pipes, poorly fitted windows and excess moisture that’s created inside the home. Some rooms are more prone to mould than others including the bathroom and kitchen, where steam is commonplace. The first sign of mould or damp usually appears as black spots which may be mistaken for dirt, but you’ll be able to differentiate this due to the unmistakable smell that mould creates.
What are the symptoms?
Exposure to heavily damp environments can affect your health, especially your respiratory system. Mould gives off allergens which can result in allergic reactions when inhaled. These fragments can result in a tight chest, wheezing, coughing and a runny nose. Black mould can worsen these symptoms and for those with existing conditions such as asthma or other chest problems, they may also experience headaches, inflammation and general fatigue too.
Who’s affected?
Anyone can be affected by mould problems, however some people could be more sensitive to it than others, including:
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Elderly people
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Babies and children
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Those with weakened immune systems
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Those with allergies and respiratory problems
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Pets
How to remove mould and damp?
Mould that appears in tile grout, baths and kitchens can usually be removed by regularly cleaning the areas with a mould remover spray and a sponge. However, large areas of damp on your walls may be a result of problems such as poor guttering or other structural issues, and in that case it’s best to have a professional assess the situation. You can also reduce mould and damp by:
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Keeping rooms well ventilated by opening windows and installing air vents
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Clean the bathroom and kitchen tiles after use
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Have drains and guttering checked
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Don’t draught-proof rooms prone to condensation
Here at NY Remedials, we can help with a range of damp problems including damp proofing and damp plastering services. Our experienced team are trained to deal with a whole host of damp situations big and small, so get in touch today to find out more.