The nights are beginning to draw in and the temperature is starting to drop; Winter is coming and with it comes weather which can cause damage to your property if you aren’t properly prepared.
1. Condensation
As soon as temperatures start to drop your home is at risk of condensation which can lead to unsightly mould which can cause damage to wallpaper and fabrics within the property. Preventing condensation is far more cost effective than repairing damage caused by it.
- Ensure that you have adequate insulation fitted in the loft (and walls if applicable)
- Ensure that you use the extractor fan on the hob when cooking.
- Make sure that heating is even throughout the property, as condensation forms on cold surfaces.
- Consider having extractor fans fitted in areas where there is a build-up of moisture such as the kitchen and bathroom. If you ask the advice of a qualified surveyor they can suggest the best unit for the lay out of your property and the best settings to use.
2. Rain Water Penetration
People often associate rain coming into their property with holes in the roof. This isn’t the only way in which rain can cause damage though and it’s important to ensure that guttering has been cleared out and isn’t overflowing onto brickwork. Leaking guttering can cause rain water penetration through the brickwork which damages internal plaster and makes affected rooms damp and musty.
3. Rising Damp
Although Rising Damp isn’t caused by Winter weather conditions it can be more noticeable in the Winter as you spend more time in the house. Unfortunately, Rising Damp isn’t something that will ‘go away’ on its own and if left long enough there is a danger that neighbouring timber, such as floor boards, will be affected and need replacement.
If you suspect you have Rising Damp in any of your ground floor rooms then it makes sense to contact a qualified surveyor and ask him to provide you with information as to how you can solve the problem.
4. Ingress in the Cellar/Basement
During winter months some people find that their basement/cellar starts to show signs of damp patches/moisture ingress. This can be frustrating as it means that a space that could be used for storage or provide an extra room for the family becomes unusable during bad weather. If you are interested in reclaiming your basement as a room then you can look into having the area waterproofed. There is no ‘one size fits all’ method of waterproofing a basement so if this is an option you would like to look at then it’s important to contact a Certified Surveyor in Structural Waterproofing (CSSW) qualified surveyor.
Preservation Treatments provide Damp Proofing, Structural Waterproofing, Timber Treatments, Condensation Solutions and Structural Repairs throughout London, Hampshire, Middlesex, Surrey, Berkshire and Sussex.
Contact us now to discuss our services further or to arrange a survey.
