Getting rid of damp in your home can be a real headache. And this winter in particular, the problem is affecting many Portuguese people. Mould, leaks, mildew, stains on ceilings or walls, damaged facades, bad smells, and damaged objects are some of the main complaints of those who have to combat these “symptoms” that appear at this time of year. And besides damaging the house, they are harmful to health.

This winter, there is indeed a humidity phenomenon affecting homes in Portugal, and the Portuguese Institute of the Sea and the Atmosphere (IPMA) explained to the publication why. Relative humidity levels in the air are around 90% to 100%. This is due to a greater amount of water vapor in the atmosphere, but also to the fact that temperatures have been higher than usual for the months of December and January. According to the IPMA, December was the warmest month in the last 92 years, being classified as “extremely warm” in terms of air temperature and very rainy in terms of precipitation.

The truth is that humidity causes problems in the home and is dangerous for those who live there. Correctly diagnosing the source of the humidity is the first step in finding a solution. But, after all, what is needed to prevent humidity in the home?


Identify the types of moisture and their source

The key to determining the type of moisture is to know its source. There are mainly four types of moisture that can ruin the structure, foundations, roof, or walls of any building:
  • accidental moisture,
  • moisture from infiltration,
  • moisture from condensation,
  • and moisture from capillarity.


In this article, which is well worth reading, we explain everything about the types of moisture. In addition, to find out if your home has a moisture problem, it is important to detect the damage it causes. For example:
  • Mites and fungi
  • General deterioration
  • Black spots or mold
  • Strong odors
  • Health problems


How to solve moisture problems: tips from an expert

There is no miracle solution to solve moisture problems in the home. However, there are small steps that are essential to prevent and control some “symptoms.” Some valuable tips that can help prevent moisture in the home:
  • Open the windows daily for at least 1/2 hour to circulate the air and ventilate the house. If you go on vacation or away for the weekend, leave at least two windows half open.
  • Close the bathroom door during and after showering and open the window or turn on the extractor fan. This prevents water vapor from circulating to other rooms;
  • Use a dehumidifier in places that are more prone to humidity or that lack ventilation, such as closets or bathrooms;
  • Place silica bags, plaster pieces, and/or cedar discs in drawers to help absorb moisture and neutralize odors;
  • Leave closet doors slightly open to allow air to circulate and avoid overcrowding. It is important to leave space between hangers;
  • Apply varnish to raw wood items/furniture, as this will waterproof them and prevent mold from forming on the surface;
  • Turn on the exhaust fan whenever you are cooking and preferably always cover pots and pans. This way, you can use the steam from cooking to cook, instead of wasting it and further saturating the air;
  • Avoid hanging clothes indoors. If you do, ideally you should use a dehumidifier or leave them in a room that can be closed and isolated from the rest of the house.


Cleaning damp walls and ceilings

We have put together a set of tips to help you clean damp, including how to:
  • clean painted walls
  • clean paper-covered walls
  • clean ceilings


Humidity and mold in the home: how to control and prevent it

Fungi that arise with humidity and mold can cause different symptoms, such as allergic reactions, ranging from rhinitis, sneezing, itching, red eyes, inflammation of the respiratory tract, or skin rashes. What indicators should you monitor to prevent mold?
  • Ventilation – it is essential, and even better if it is cross ventilation;
  • Indoor temperature – should be between 64°F and 72°F;
  • Relative humidity: 40%–60% ideal; 30%–70% acceptable.


Tips for drying clothes faster in winter

Drying clothes on rainy days is more complicated for those who do not have a balcony or live in a house or apartment with little sunlight. Without sun or wind, clothes stay on the clothesline much longer. In this article, we share some tips for drying clothes faster in winter:
  • Organize your laundry
  • Use the spin cycle
  • Dry on hangers
  • Hang clothes strategically
  • Alternate between lighter and heavier fabrics

Source: idealista/news
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