How to Prevent Mould in Your Garage During Colder Months
It’s that time of year when mould can become a prevalent issue for households. It can’t be stressed enough how important it is to put measures in place to prevent mould growth, particularly in your garage, which can often be forgotten about. Not only does it cause damage to your property, but it can also create potential health problems for you and your family.
Read on to find out the main signs of mould and how to prevent it from growing in your garage.
Signs of mould in your garage
Mould is a microscopic fungus that grows in damp places. It is much more likely to grow in the colder months because the increased humidity and temperature differences can create ideal conditions for growth.
The key signs to be aware of are:
- Smells: mould normally emits a musty, damp smell.
- Visible patches of mould: the patches will usually appear in a black, white or green colour.
- Increased humidity: Mould requires the RH (relative humidity) to be above 70%.=
It’s important to detect any signs of mould early to prevent it from spreading and causing further damage. Let’s take a look at a few measures that you can implement to prevent mould from growing in your garage.
How to prevent mould in your garage
There are a number of ways to prevent mould in your garage, from ventilation to regular cleaning and maintenance.
Let’s take a deeper look at the key measures below.
Ventilation
Making sure your garage is properly ventilated will help to prevent mould from growing. You can achieve this by opening your windows regularly, as long as the weather is appropriate, or by installing an extractor fan.
Humidity
The ideal RH to prevent mould growth is between 30% and 50%. It can be helpful to use a dehumidifier in your garage to reduce the RH. Additionally, avoid storing wet items in your garage, as the combination of humidity and dampness can increase the risk of mould.
Regular cleaning and maintenance
Keeping your garage well maintained and dry will help prevent mould growth. If you notice any leaks, get them repaired promptly. Equally, keeping your garage clean will prevent mould because it can feed on almost any type of natural substance, including food and materials used to make furniture.
Insulation and seals
Finally, keeping your garage well insulated and sealed will help maintain a consistent temperature and reduce condensation. This means ensuring your garage walls are insulated and your garage doors and windows are sealed properly.
What to do if you have mould in your garage
If you are already experiencing mould growth in your garage, it’s possible to remove it by using household products, a mould remover or by calling a professional.
Mixing washing up liquid with warm water can work for removing small patches of mould on walls or other hard surfaces. There are plenty of mould remover options available in supermarkets and DIY stores. Alternatively, find a local professional if the problem is much more serious.
And, finally, don’t forget to implement the prevention techniques listed above once the mould has been removed, so that the issue doesn’t repeat itself.
Need new garage doors?
If you need to buy new garage doors in Kent then Garage Doors 4 You is here to help. Our expert specialists can help you find the perfect doors for your garage. We also offer optional extras, such as insulation kits, to help keep your garage damp-free.
Keen to find out more? Get in touch with our team today!
