As temperatures drop and the heating comes on, damp problems often become more noticeable. Condensation on windows, patches of mould, and musty smells are all common at this time of year.
To help you keep your home warm, dry, and healthy, the team at Shield Waterproofing & Preservation has put together ten practical tips for avoiding damp this autumn and winter.
1. Keep Your Home Well Ventilated
Even in cold weather, ventilation is key. Open windows briefly each day or use trickle vents to allow moist air to escape. Proper airflow helps prevent condensation forming on cold surfaces.
2. Use Extractor Fans Effectively
Run kitchen and bathroom fans while cooking, showering, or drying clothes indoors — and leave them running for a few minutes afterwards. This removes moisture before it can settle.
3. Don’t Block Air Bricks or Vents
Check that air bricks are clear of leaves, debris, or soil build-up. These small openings are vital for allowing air to circulate through cavity walls and under floors.
4. Keep Gutters and Downpipes Clear
Fallen leaves and debris can cause gutters to overflow, directing water down walls instead of away from them. Clear gutters regularly to avoid penetrating damp.
5. Check Roofs and Flashings
Loose or damaged roof tiles, cracks in flashings, and blocked valleys can all let rainwater in. A quick roof inspection before winter sets in can prevent serious leaks later.
6. Maintain Adequate Heating
Cold, unheated rooms are more likely to suffer from condensation. Keep background heating on in cooler rooms, even if only at a low temperature.
7. Dry Clothes Carefully Indoors
Avoid placing wet clothes directly on radiators. Instead, use a clothes airer in a well-ventilated room or near an extractor fan to reduce moisture build-up.
8. Check for Rising Damp
Look for tide marks, peeling paint, or salt deposits on internal walls. If you suspect rising damp, arrange a professional inspection before it worsens over winter.
9. Insulate Cold Surfaces
Proper insulation on walls and ceilings helps reduce condensation. Pay attention to cold bridges around windows, external corners, and metal frames.
10. Arrange a Professional Damp Survey
If you notice persistent condensation or damp smells, a survey from Shield Waterproofing & Preservation can help identify the cause and recommend the right solution.
Stay Dry and Comfortable All Season
Taking simple preventative steps now can save money and protect your property through the wetter months. Whether you’re worried about condensation, rising damp, or structural waterproofing, our qualified surveyors are here to help.
Contact Shield Waterproofing & Preservation for honest advice or to book a Free Damp Survey today.
Guaranteed Waterproofing Solutions!
Contact Shield Preservation today to learn how our expert waterproofing services can protect your property from water damage and keep it safe and dry for years to come.
Call us today on 0800 098 2780
About Shield Preservation
Shield Preservation was set up by a team of professionals with over 30 years experience in the waterproofing, damp proofing and timber preservation industry. Our surveyors are CSRT and CSSW accredited, offering excellent service and sensible advice, for the smallest to larger projects both domestic and commercial.
With over 30 years’ combined expertise in waterproofing, damp proofing, and timber preservation, the team behind Shield Preservation brings a wealth of knowledge to every project. Our CSRT- and CSSW-accredited surveyors are committed to delivering reliable service and practical advice, whether you’re dealing with a small domestic concern or a large commercial undertaking.
Friendly and professional, our specialists provide bespoke guidance and proven solutions for challenges including waterproofing, damp proofing, woodworm, wet rot, dry rot, timber preservation, concrete repairs, and structural repairs. We also carry out in-depth structural surveys, giving you the clear, informed perspective you need to safeguard your property. Contact us today to discover the most effective approach for your building’s preservation.
Why Choose Shield Preservation?
Team
We boast a highly experienced team of surveyors providing site specific technical advice and designs for the most complex of projects from concept to completion.
Independent
As an independent company we are able to specify the appropriate products from a range of trusted suppliers to best suit the individual site and it’s limitations.
Guaranteed
Our works are backed up with a Shield Preservation Guarantee and we can offer an insurance backed guarantee through CGS (Construction Guarantee Scheme) if requested.
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