How to prevent mould build-up and increase ventilation: top tips for looking after your home this winter

As we head towards the winter months, carrying out regular checks on your property is even more essential. Colder temperatures and increased rainfall bring a higher risk of potential damage to your home, so being as prepared as possible is key.

With mould, damp and structural issues all rising in possibility at this time of year, here are our top tips for staying on top of your home maintenance.

Prevent creating a warm and damp atmosphere

One of the main causes of mould is a warm and damp environment, which is easily created while cooking food, drying out washing and showering. While these activities are all unavoidable, there are ways to reduce the chance of them creating mould.

Increasing the airflow in the room while performing these tasks is key. An easy way to do this is to open a window to reduce the temperature and dry out any damp patches. Another way of minimising moisture in areas like your kitchen or bathroom is to use an extractor fan to vent the air outdoors and reduce humidity.

Prepare your home if you are leaving it unoccupied

This is particularly important for owners (landlords) who may have vacant properties, or anyone planning to be away from their property over Christmas. Any homes that are left unoccupied for a long period should have the water turned off to prevent the pipes freezing and causing any long-term structural damage.

It is also a good idea to heat the property before you leave to keep it warm for the longest amount of time possible. The most beneficial way to care for a vacant home is to try and maintain a low to medium heat in the property, either through frequent visits or virtually controlled heating.

Carry out simple checks regularly

Taking extra care with your maintenance needs before winter is a great idea for ensuring you don’t run into any problems in the depths of the festive period. This can include simple maintenance like clearing out your gutters, wiping down your windows to avoid damp and condensation, and checking the seals on your doors and windows to exclude any drafts.

As mould builds up when there is too much moisture in an area, one of the biggest priorities is to ensure these surfaces are not left wet and air is regularly ventilated around the property. By wiping down windows every morning, opening them regularly and drying washing outside whenever the weather allows, you will minimise the risk of mould developing. 

To speak to one of our experts and get more advice on caring for your property this winter, contact the Paramount team on 020 7372 0202.