Damp and black mould are two of the most common yet concerning problems that can affect homes. Not only do they impact the appearance of your property, but they can also pose serious health risks and lead to structural damage if left unaddressed. But should you be concerned about damp and black mould, and what is the cause? Let’s dive into the details.
What causes Black Mould?
1. Poor Ventilation
When a home lacks proper airflow, moisture from daily activities like cooking, showering, and drying clothes indoors becomes trapped. This excess humidity creates the perfect breeding ground for mould spores to thrive.
2. Leaks and Structural Issues
Leaks from roofs, windows, or plumbing can introduce water into walls and floors. Over time, these areas become saturated, leading to persistent dampness and eventually mould growth.
3. Condensation
Condensation occurs when warm, humid air comes into contact with cold surfaces, such as walls or windows. If condensation happens frequently, it can result in damp patches and mould formation.
4. Rising Damp
Rising damp occurs when moisture from the ground seeps into walls due to a failure in the damp-proof course (DPC). This type of damp often causes black mould to appear near the base of walls.
5. Damp Cavity Walls
If the cavity in a wall becomes blocked with debris or insulation gets wet, the damp can bridge to the inner wall, creating ideal conditions for black mould to grow.
When should you be concerned about damp and black mould?
It’s important to act quickly when damp or mould appears in your home. Here are the key signs to watch for and when to be concerned:
- Health Symptoms: If you or your family members experience respiratory issues, allergies, or frequent colds, black mould may be contributing to poor indoor air quality. Mould spores can exacerbate asthma and cause skin or eye irritation. Unfortunately, black mould can be hidden beneath the surface, so known the signs to look for is the first step to preventing long term health damage.
- Structural Damage: Damp can weaken walls, floors, and ceilings over time. If you notice cracks, wet patches, or bubbling paint, it’s a sign that the damp problem is worsening.
- Widespread Mould Growth: Small patches of mould are easier to treat, but if mould starts to spread across walls or ceilings, it indicates an underlying issue that needs professional attention.
- Persistent Damp Patches: If damp areas don’t dry out after improving ventilation or heating, it could signal a more serious problem like a leak or rising damp.
Why Black Mould is dangerous
Black mould isn’t just bad to look at it, it can be extremely hazardous to your health. The spores released by mould can cause a range of health issues, especially for individuals with allergies, asthma, or weakened immune systems. Prolonged exposure can lead to more serious conditions, such as chronic respiratory problems.
In addition to health concerns, black mould can damage your home. It can stain walls and ceilings, weaken plaster, and compromise the structural integrity of wood and other building materials.
How to prevent or stop Black Mould and Damp
To stop black mould and damp, start by booking a professional damp survey to identify and address the root cause, such as damp cavity wall insulation, rising damp, or poor insulation. Fixing issues like damaged damp-proof courses, blocked cavity walls, or wet insulation is essential for long-term prevention.
Improving ventilation with extractor fans and repairing leaks will reduce moisture buildup. Once the damp source is resolved, safely remove mould to prevent regrowth. Regular maintenance and airflow will keep your home dry and healthy.
When to call CavClear
If you’re dealing with persistent damp or large areas of black mould, it’s time to seek professional help. At CavClear, we specialise in identifying the root causes of damp and mould via our expert damp survey’s and reports (with recommendations), along with providing tailored solutions, including damp-proofing, cavity wall insulation improvements, and mould remediation, to protect your home and your health in the long term.
Damp and black mould are more than just cosmetic problems, they can significantly impact your home’s structure and your family’s well-being. By understanding the causes and addressing them early, you can prevent further damage and keep your home safe and comfortable.
If you’re concerned about damp or mould in your home, don’t wait. Contact CavClear today for a consultation and take the first step toward a dry, mould-expert environment, here.
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