Attempting to treat damp incorrectly can lead to further damage, so if you have any concerns regarding treatment of damp in your older property in Dorset or Hampshire, don’t hesitate to get in touch with damp treatment experts such as ourselves for professional advice and guidance. Contact us on 01202 737739.
Old stone or brick walls that have been subjected to years of abuse by the elements are likely to show cracks and holes in windowsills, roofs, doors, stone or brickwork that modern homes are less likely to have. This makes them more susceptible to penetrating damp.
Check for cracks
You should check your windowsills for cracks, as water can bleed into the wall below and cause damp, peeling and rotting to skirting boards from where rain has dripped down. Water will also track between door frames along joists and into the wall.
Solution: If you have an old front door and weathered windows, it may be worth considering replacements or refurbishment.
Check your gutters
Blocked or damaged gutters and downpipes are one of the leading causes of damp problems for all properties, however, it can be particularly damaging for old homes due to the potential lack of damp proof course and damaged exterior wall, which will make intrusion easier.
Solution: Next time it rains heavily, take a walk around the circumference of your property and ensure that water is not splashing onto the walls. If you spot a damaged or blocked gutter, get it fixed as soon as possible.
Unfortunately, many of our daily habits involve generating a lot of moisture, including cooking, showering and washing up and this can lead to cases of damp. Condensation probably wasn’t as much of an issue during the Victorian period, as their fireplaces ensured steady ventilation.
However, in modern times we are more obsessed than ever before with ensuring that our homes are as thermally efficient as possible, for example, but installing double glazing, filling in draughty gaps around doors and filling in fireplaces, which means that ventilation can take a back seat. This can lead to condensation and potential mould growth.
Solution: If your kitchen and bathroom don’t already, ensure that you have installed extractor fans to assist with removing steam from cooking and showering. Also, ensure that your air bricks and vents are clear and free from obstruction.
Are you experiencing a damp problem in your old home in Dorset or Hampshire? We are experienced in solving all manner of damp problem and are happy to help you solve yours. Get in touch today on 01202 737739.
