How to prevent mould growing in your home

In order to grow, mould requires moisture.

Reducing levels of moisture in the air is key to preventing mould from growing indoors. Most species of mould need a relative surface humidity of at least 75% in order to grow.

Reduce moisture levels

Moisture inside buildings may come from water damage, including penetrating or rising damp, burst pipes or flooding. This means that houses - and especially pipework and guttering - must be properly maintained in order to prevent water coming into the property.

High humidity levels can also be caused by daily household activities. Washing and cooking, for example, generate significant amounts of water vapour. This turns into condensation when it settles on cold surfaces such as external walls. Walls that become damp from condensation are prone to mould growth.

This can be especially problematic in older houses with less insulation. Using effective ventilation and airing rooms regularly are effective ways of preventing problems from developing.

Air your home

Air your home frequently (especially in when cooking and bathing) to avoid increased indoor humidity.

Airing bedrooms is especially important in limiting indoor humidity, because people produce considerable quantities of water vapour as they sleep. Furthermore, many people prefer to sleep in cooler bedrooms, which increases the risk of condensation.

According to the World Health Organization, persistent humidity and mould growth on indoor surfaces and structural elements may pose health risks and should be avoided or limited.

Correct diganosis of mould problems is essential in order for health problems to be avoided.