How to Prevent Mould During Home Renovations

CONTENTS

• Understanding mould development during renovations
• The health risks associated with mould exposure
• Identifying signs of mould during renovation
• Strategies for preventing mould growth during renovations
• Proactive measures for managing moisture and cleanliness
• Dealing with existing mould before renovations
• Frequently asked questions
• Get in touch

A musty smell lurking around your home during a renovation could be more than dust and paint; it might be mould growing. When you are redesigning your home, it is vulnerable to the elements, leaving it susceptible to mould due to the accumulation of dirt, dust, and poor ventilation.

At ICE Cleaning, we offer mould removal services for those struggling to keep mould at bay in their home. We work closely with your local council to ensure government standards are met and we adhere to Awaab's Law throughout the process to keep you and your family safe.

Read on to learn more about recognising signs of unwanted mould growth early on and effective strategies for preventing its development.

Understanding mould development during renovations

Mould development is a common challenge during renovations. This is attributed to the abundance of dust, increased moisture levels, and significant structural changes.

Dust from building materials provides an ideal breeding ground for mould spores, while disruptions in ventilation systems often result in excessive humidity.

The most problematic aspect is that once it starts growing, mould spreads rapidly if not remediated immediately. Its resilience lies within its ability to thrive even on non-organic surfaces like plaster or bricks when dust and dirt are present.

Inadequate sealing or insulation could lead to unwanted moisture seeping into walls, encouraging mould growth. Therefore, understanding these contributing factors can help you mitigate the risk of mould during your renovation project.

The health risks associated with mould exposure

When mould makes itself at home during renovations, it brings a host of health risks. Among these is respiratory illness, as mould spores in the air can trigger allergies, leading to symptoms like sneezing and wheezing.

Some may develop skin rashes or eye irritations when exposed to mould for extended periods, and certain types of mould produce mycotoxins. This could lead to serious illnesses with long-term exposure, such as asthma or respiratory infections.

Identifying signs of mould during renovation

Spotting mould early is key to preventing its spread. One tell-tale sign of mould during renovations is a musty smell, even if you cannot see it. This odour comes from the microbial volatile organic compounds (MVOCs) that mould produces.

Mould may appear as clusters of black, green or brown spots on surfaces such as walls and ceilings. These are more likely in damp areas like basements or bathrooms.

You might also notice unusual health symptoms among occupants, such as sneezing, coughing or eye irritation - all signs that could indicate mould exposure. Lastly, discolouration or damage to materials, like woodwork, can suggest hidden mould growth underneath.

Strategies for preventing mould growth during renovations

Renovation projects can be at risk for mould growth if not handled properly. You can prevent this by taking specific steps.

Firstly, keep the area well-ventilated to reduce moisture levels; consider using dehumidifiers. Secondly, regularly clean up dust and debris, which could potentially feed mould spores.

Use protective sheets or tarps to cover areas not being renovated; it limits dust spread and balances humidity levels. Certain materials, like drywall are also more prone to harbour mould, so you should choose alternatives when possible.

If you suspect existing mould issues before renovations start, get professional help from mould cleaning companies.

Proactive measures for managing moisture and cleanliness

To prevent mould growth during renovations, controlling moisture is integral. A damp environment encourages the spread of mould. Regularly using a dehumidifier or moisture catcher can help maintain a healthy humidity level.

Cleanliness also plays an essential role. Because dust provides food for spores, keeping your renovation area dust-free is crucial. Use dust sheets and clean up regularly with a HEPA filter vacuum cleaner.

Maintaining good ventilation can also reduce moisture build-up, allowing fresh air to circulate whenever possible or investing in a proper ventilation system could prevent a mould outbreak.

Lastly, be proactive about identifying potential problems like leaky pipes or roofs, as they can contribute significantly to excess moisture, leading to mould development.

Dealing with existing mould before renovations

If you discover mould during your pre-renovation checks, you need to identify the source of moisture that is encouraging mould growth This could be a leaky pipe or poor ventilation, and if you are having difficulty with this, you should request a damp survey.

Once you have found and fixed the issue, do not start cleaning up the mould. Using DIY cleaning products or bleach solutions will only kill the surface mould and not the root and potentially put you at risk for inhaling the fumes.

Professional help is needed for stubborn infestations, and mould removal companies have years of experience in dealing with mould and can ensure your home is ready for renovation.

Professional assistance for mould prevention and removal

Mould issues during renovations can be stubborn, but mould experts have the knowledge and tools to tackle mould effectively. Hiring professionals means you get a comprehensive approach to dealing with mould. 

Mould cleaners assess your property's condition, identify hidden spots of growth, and apply appropriate treatment methods. They do this by utilising moisture detectors and conducting a damp survey.

If you have spotted signs of mould in your ongoing project or want to ensure things stay clean moving forward, professional help may be worth considering.

Frequently asked questions

How do you deal with mould during renovations?

You should identify and fix any moisture issues, such as water damage or a leak. You should then contact mould remediation services.

Is it safe to be in a building with mould?

No, prolonged exposure can cause health problems such as allergies or respiratory conditions. If there's significant mould growth, seek professional help immediately.

Does mould devalue a house?

Mould suggests structural issues like leaks or dampness that can deter potential buyers and lower your home's value significantly.

When should you walk away from a house with mould?

If the infestation is extensive or causing structural damage and if fixing these issues isn't financially feasible for you - then it might be time to step back.

Get in touch

For damp surveys or any other mould-related services, you can rely on the experts here at ICE Cleaning. Our technicians offer mould remediation services, which include a moisture survey to identify the likely source of mould growth, helping you prevent it in the future.

If you would like to learn more about our services, you can get in touch with our team at 0208 066 0360 or enquiries@icecleaning.co.uk. We operate nationwide and keep our phone lines open 24/7, ensuring your needs are met, and we can help in the event of an emergency.