Nearly six in 10 privately rented homes experience issues with mould and damp which can not only be costly in repairs but most importantly bad for someone’s health.
The exposure to mould in UK households is already apparent with Google searches for ‘how to get mould off ceiling’ increasing by a staggering 5,000 percent.
The experts at Hiatt Hardware have shared their tips on how to efficiently prevent and cover mould-growth in the home.
One of the tips includes creating a homemade solution with a common ingredient and is easy to buy online.
Even better it will only cost someone £2.99 for a box and can be used more than once.
How to combat mould-growth this winter:
Use natural remedies to remove mould
Ryan Calvert, product manager at Hiatt Hardware, has provided the following advice on how to remove mould from painted walls:
“Natural cleaning solutions like borax is the best option for removing mould from walls without damaging the paintwork, a key factor to consider for those who rent their home.
“The antifungal properties of borax make it an excellent natural cleaner. Mix one cup of borax powder with four litres of water and brush the solution into the affected areas, taking care not to spread it elsewhere. When finished, wipe up the borax solution and let it completely dry.”
Borax is available from Amazon for £6.53 for a box of three or from Robert Dyas for £2.99.
Increase ventilation and control humidity
During winter we often keep the windows closed to retain heat, however, this can trap moisture indoors, where mould thrives. To avoid this, regular ventilation is key during the colder months.
Briefly opening the windows or using extractor fans in high-humidity areas like the bathroom or kitchen can help prevent mould from growing.
It is also recommended to avoid drying clothes indoors as this releases moisture into the air, or using a dehumidifier if unavoidable to aid in counteracting the excess moisture.
Prevent condensation build-up
Cold surfaces like windows, exterior walls, and ceilings are prone to condensation buildup during winter, making them key areas for mould to grow.
Thermal curtains and draught stoppers can help to insulate and reduce moisture build-up in these areas. To protect these surfaces further, homeowners can apply a mould-resistant paint on damp-prone walls, ceiling and window sills to help block mould from growing.
Check for and fix leaks
Leaks in the roof, windows and pipes can worsen when the temperatures drop, leading to unexpected mould growth.
Make sure to check these areas regularly during the winter months, especially after heavy rain or snowfall, and fix and seal any leaks or gaps in your home promptly in order to prevent moisture from entering as this creates the perfect conditions for mould to grow.
Cover mould stains with temporary solutions
Kitchens and bathrooms are often the rooms in which mould grows more easily due to the excess humidity and after removing and protecting your home from mould growth, there may be some stains that remain.
Tiled areas are prone to accumulating dirt and grime, and most stubborn mould and mildew in grout lines. A grout pen is a landlord-friendly solution for home renters seeking a quick, easy and cost-effective way to refresh their grout lines whilst also helping to prevent future moisture build-up.
