Many people find they have problems with damp in their homes. But while a common household problem, it can be not only frustrating but can damage to your walls and is bad for your health.
Some forms of mould can develop as a result of damp walls, and it is listed as one of the number one home decor features that puts off potential home buyers. But it can also cause breathing problems, asthma attacks and skin rashes among other things.
Now Paint and Interiors expert, Tobie Lewis, from Valspar Paint, has shared a simple trick for removing damp from your walls and how to stop it from coming back. Here’s what he recommends.
What causes damp?
Tobie says: “There are three different types of damp. Condensation is unavoidable and happens when hot air hits a cold surface.
“It’s most common in kitchens and bathrooms after cooking or showering, but it can also appear on windows after the heating has been on, for example. If condensation is left to sit on surfaces for too long, it will cause damp and mould.”
How to get rid of damp
The expert says how you fix the damp depends on the cause of the problem. He explains: “If you think there’s a problem with your exterior wall, roof or you have rising damp, call a specialist who will help identify the cause and fix the problem.
“However, if it’s something you can tackle at home, try using white vinegar for areas of mould found on porous surfaces. This trick is especially useful if the damp has extended below the surface.
“The vinegar will penetrate to kill the mould and mildew at the root, preventing it from regrowing.” White vinegar costs just 35p from Aldi.
How to paint over damp
Tobie says: “When painting over a damp patch, you should always use a specialist paint. Paints designed for damp often have properties that treat the problem as well and stop it from coming back.
“They also let moisture escape meaning there won’t be a build-up of damp. So if you’ve fixed the root cause, using a specially formulated damp paint should put a stop to the problem for good.
“Damp stains can be difficult to paint over but specialist paints should make this job easy. Our damp seal permanently seals and blocks damp stains from spreading, so it won’t ruin your topcoat.
“Some damp paints let you paint it directly straight onto the damp patch whereas others might need a dry surface to adhere to. You should also check that the paint you’re using lets you add another layer of emulsion on top.
“Some paints are most effective when they act as the topcoat, but that drastically narrows your colour choices. So do your research before you choose your paint!
How to avoid damp in the future
Tobie says: “Repairing leaks and also managing ventilation of your home, to get rid of condensation inside windows, for example, is key to preventing black mould from growing. Keep problem areas like bathrooms, kitchens, or laundry rooms heated, as this will help to reduce the chances of mould growth simply because mould has an ideal temperature and moisture range in which to live and thrive.”