Cold weather can wreak havoc on old buildings, with office winter mould being a very common problem in London. The wet, wintry weather can cause damp patches which make it very easy for mould to develop. As well as being unsightly, mould can be a hazard to health so it is important that mould is removed and prevented in the future.

Mould is a problem at this side of year because it becomes harder for moist air to escape buildings, because windows are open less. Avoiding winter mould means taking action to create a damp-free environment inside all rooms, including trying to prevent condensation.

What is mould?

Mould is a type of fungus which decomposes dead material. The ideal conditions for mould are damp and warm, and it also requires oxygen and food. It can feed off a range of organic materials such as wood, as well as synthetic materials like paint. Moulds are natural and they exist everywhere, but they are usually microscopic so you can’t see them. Mould spores are actually in the air we breathe all of the time.

Mould growth in homes usually occurs where there is damp or moisture. This can be caused by an inefficient roof letting rain in, leaking pipes, condensation or rising damp. If you have excess moisture in your business premises, chances are mould will start to grow.

Preventing mould

Once you understand what mould is and what it needs to survive, you can take steps to prevent it from becoming a problem. Moist air and cold surfaces are the ideal conditions for condensation and mould, so follow these tips:

• Heat the building properly and keep it warm for as long as possible
• Open the windows for a few minutes every day, especially in areas with moist air such as bathrooms and kitchens
• Ventilate rooms properly, leave doors open where possible
• Repair any leaks or faulty roofs promptly
• Keep windows clean and free from condensation

Dangers of mould

Damp and mould can be a health issue, especially for those with allergies such as asthma and eczema. Moulds produce allergens and toxic substances, so you shouldn’t be around it for too long or expect your employees to work in a mouldy office. Inhaling mould spores can cause an allergic reaction and affect the immune system – so it may result in more staff taking time off work sick.

It’s important to take steps to prevent mould growth, especially in winter. If you already have mould then you need to get a professional to remove it and identify where the moisture is coming from.