Are you experiencing recurring damp issues in your home? In this guide, we’ll explore how to get rid of damp in your home by discussing some of the best steps you can take.
Dehumidifier
One of the best approaches to dealing with damp is a dehumidifier. The purpose of a dehumidifier is to rid the air of excess moisture which can lead to damp issues. After all, it’s important to stop the source of damp and a dehumidifier can be one way of achieving this.
As a dehumidifier consumes excess moisture, it subsequently blows warm air back into the room. Moisture is deposited in the form of water in a collection bucket which can be found toward the bottom of your dehumidifier.
On average, dehumidifiers cost somewhere between £200 and £400, however, low-cost versions exist, being priced at around £50 or less.
In most cases, it’s best to leave a dehumidifier running for six to twelve hours a day, although you shouldn’t leave it running overnight. You’ll also need to pour out the collection bucket water whenever it becomes full which will often occur after six to seven hours.
Ventilation and Air Circulation
It’s important that you consider ventilation and air circulation when it comes to removing damp from your property.
Starting with ventilation, it’s essential that you allow moist air to leave your home. Failure to do so will allow it to build and cause dampness.
Opening windows appropriately is a key part of this, however, you’ll also want to consider the use of extractor fans. For instance, an extractor fan in a kitchen can address excess moisture when boiling food. You should also consider having an extractor fan added to any bathroom with a bath or/and shower is regularly used.
Beyond that, it’s key that your home has proper air circulation. For instance, ensure your cupboards are not over-stuffed. Also, we recommend keeping a gap between furniture and the wall they’re next to.
Remove Moisture from Windows
It’s a good idea to wipe your windows down every morning. This can be done with a bit of kitchen towel although other solutions include a window vac or squeegee. More precautions are needed to remove mould and exact manufacturer instructions (e.g., those provided with a specific mould removal product) should be followed carefully!
Opt for Improved Insulation
Insulating your home well is key to keeping the heat in and thus limiting the accumulation of moisture that can lead to damp issues.
Insulation may come in the form of double-glazed windows, triple-glazed windows, loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, and specialist insulation for dealing with damp issues in particular.
Getting a professional to add insulation and in such a way (regardless of the type) that will result in better results for damp issues is key. After all, insulation can in some cases have the opposite effect. So, make sure to consult with the contractor before work commences to ensure insulation that keeps the heat in and limits damp issues.
Moisture Resistant Paint/Wallpaper
A less common but often effective approach of dealing with excess moisture is paint or wallpaper with moisture-resistant qualities.
There are a wide range of paint products out there with the qualities needed for resisting moisture in kitchens and bathrooms. If you’d like to go with wallpaper, consider a suitable vinyl wallpaper product.
Damp Proofing
A more long-lasting and highly effective solution is to damp proof your home. So when it comes to damp proofing your house – what about costs and time frames?
On average, it costs £280 to £370 to damp proof a terraced house, £500 to £800 to damp proof a semi-detached house, and £1,500 to £2,000 to damp proof a detached house. As for time frames, damp proofing will likely take between one and four weeks.
Hiring a Professional
If you’re thinking of hiring a professional (e.g., to add insulation or damp proofing), it’s ideal to get quotes from three contractors before making a decision.
When considering your options, you’ll want to compare their pricing, any online reviews/ratings they have, and their level of experience.
