Finding black mould in your home is never a nice surprise as it can cause issues not only for your property, but also your health.
Black mould can cause respiratory issues over time, and for people with pre-existing health conditions, it could be deadly as the fungus can lead to pneumonia.
It can be caused by condensation in the home and is usually found at the skirting level in rooms, in the corners of walls and ceilings or on cold surfaces.
The fungus can also appear on cold surfaces such as tiles and window sills or behind furniture where the air flow is restricted.
But what is the best way to prevent black mould in the home?
We spoke to Michael Rolland, interiors expert and Managing Director of The Paint Shed about all things black mould and the best preventative measures you should carry out before the weather gets colder.
What causes black mould in the home?
Poor ventilation inside the home and condensation on surfaces during the colder months can cause black mould.
Mr Rolland said: "Black mould is caused by and thrives in damp or humid conditions, in rooms such as bathrooms and kitchens, where there is no adequate ventilation."
Over time, the mould can grow into a bigger problem for households if it is not cleaned thoroughly.
What are the best methods to prevent black mould inside the home?
Rooms inside your home need to be well ventilated to ensure that black mould cannot grow due to condensation.
Mr Rolland said: "The best way to prevent black mould is to ensure spaces of high humidity are well ventilated. Non-electric dehumidifiers can also be placed in the rooms to help take excess moisture out of the air, especially if you have an enclosed bathroom with no windows, such as seen in many new builds.
"It is also important to properly tackle the black mould when it does appear, a simple wipe or spray of anti-bacterial cleaner won't cut it."
What are the best, inexpensive products to use to prevent black mould?
There are a range of cheap products that you can use to prevent black mould inside your home this winter.
These products include mould resistant paint, a fungicidal wash to use before paint on surfaces.
White vinegar or bleach can also be used to clean affected areas but make sure to read the label on the products before use.
One way to improve ventilation inside your home is by using a dehumidifier, which can be found for around £1 in your local supermarket, to prevent damp and mould.
Households should also clean extractor fans to ensure that moisture is escaping while using the bathroom or kitchen.
