Mould spores thrive in damp conditions and can grow virtually everywhere — from wood and fabric to drywall and plastic — making them prevalent in homes throughout New Zealand. Mould can cause many health effects, from milder colds to severe infections. It can be dangerous if left untreated, especially for immune-compromised and asthmatic individuals. Mould can also cause permanent damage to your furniture and even compromise the structural integrity of your home. Stamp out mould infestation; we discuss how to prevent mould in your home and how double-glazing windows can benefit you.
You can identify mould by its distinctive discoloured spots or a rotten and musty smell. If you are experiencing cold-like symptoms or allergy flare-ups without apparent reason, it could be the cause of mould lurking in your walls.
High levels of humidity and moisture are the primary cause of mould. Water can enter your home through cracks in your roof or walls. Leaks can also form from sinks and water-wielding appliances. Winter is prime time for mould formation, as most of us keep windows and doors tightly closed to prevent chilly drafts from getting in. Proper ventilation can prevent adequate circulation and build up excessive humid air indoors. Homes with single-pane glass windows can also experience excessive condensation, which can collect on joinery and walls, damaging them.
Upon discovering damp patches in the walls and ceiling or around your home, you must run a thorough inspection to find the source and deal with it promptly. There could be more existing mould than you expect.
Install a well-functioning ventilation system in high-moisture areas like kitchens and bathrooms. This allows fresh, dry air to enter your home, expelling moist and warm air outside. In addition to being great for collecting moisture from the air, dehumidifiers also work well to reduce dust mites — perfect for sensitive individuals or those with allergies. Consider investing in double-glazed windows, which feature a trapped layer of air between two glass panes that serve as an insulating barrier and help limit excess moisture and condensation.
Regular vacuuming, dusting, and cleaning around your home — especially in high-moisture areas like kitchens and bathrooms — will help prevent mould formation.
Avoid dry brushing mouldy areas as this can release spores into the air, increasing their spread and concentration. Use a mild detergent like sugar soap and a microfibre cloth to dab at mould, ensuring you dry the area thoroughly after cleaning. Otherwise, a solution of diluted vinegar will work well too. If neither of these solutions is effective, switch to a diluted bleach solution or a commercial mould cleaning product while wearing proper safety gear to protect your eyes, skin, and clothes from chemicals.
Mould prevention is vital to ensuring the health and safety of your family and home. Double glazing your windows is an easy way to achieve that. As Auckland’s retrofit double glazing experts, Atlas Glass will support you in the manufacturing and installation process at every step. Upgrade your home with an easy method to prevent mould formation; talk to our expert team for a free consultation and quote today!
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