Well, for starters, is your roof cavity well ventilated? It is easy to forget about the condition of your roof space when the ceiling space is the least used area in the house. But, a poorly ventilated roof cavity can negatively impact the rest of your home.
Removing any mould that is present in the roof cavity is important for the overall health of your property and your family. Preventing mould from occurring in the first place is the best course of action, and the simplest way to do this is by letting excess moisture escape your roof space before it settles and turns into a mouldy roof.
Read on to find our suggestions for the best ways to remove and prevent mould growth in your roof cavity.
Why Does Mould Grow?
Mould grows because of moisture in the air. When the air is humid, condensation settles into the roof space and eventually causes mould.
The optimum conditions for mould to grow are where there is heat, water, and oxygen. However, mould is easily preventable if your roof cavity is well ventilated.
Where Does Mould Grow In My Roof Cavity?
Mould can grow on almost any material in the roof cavity that is made from organic matter. Wood is the predominant material that is present in your roof cavity. Therefore, mould will more than likely grow on wood beams and joists first.
Cosmetic mould growth should be easy enough to remove, although mould that has settled into the wood may cause structural damage. This would require extensive work completed by specialists to replace the affected joists.
However, wood is not the only material that mould loves. Insulation foam that is made using mineral wool is also a prime target. Unfortunately, once mould has begun to grow in the insulation foam, it will spread pretty quickly.
How Can I Remove Mould In My Roof Cavity?
Serious mould may need to be removed by a specialist. Not only may the mould be ingrained in the roof materials themselves, but mould can be dangerous to your health.
If you breathe in mould spores, you could feel shortness of breath along with other irritant reactions. A small number of people are allergic to mould, and so contact with mould can cause more serious reactions.
However, some visible mould in roof cavity spaces can be removed quite easily. Follow these simple steps for effective mould removal.
1. Preparation Is Key
If possible, choose a warm, dry day to remove mould from your roof cavity. Trying to remove ceiling mould on a wet day may be counterproductive, as the spores may land on another cold surface.
2. Be Careful
Do not underestimate how harmful mould can be to your health. Take all relevant precautions to look after your health above all else. For example, open any windows and vents, ensuring that the space is fully ventilated. You should also protect other parts of your body by wearing gloves on your hands and long-sleeved protective clothes. Masks that cover your eyes and mouth are also good ideas, provided they are specifically for use against mould.
As always, if in doubt, call in a specialist mould remover, or seek a qualified roof inspection.
3. Cleaning Products
Bleach is the best and cheapest cleaning product to get rid of mould, although you can buy dedicated mould cleaning solutions. Check the manufacturer’s instructions in full before using any cleaning product, taking all recommended precautions.
A key point to remember, however, is to never mix bleach with a product containing ammonia, as the fumes are toxic.
4. Remove Any Disposable Items
If the mould has grown into the curtains or cushions, it is probably best to throw them away. You can clean the surface of those materials, although the mould will have grown inside the fabric and will spread.
5. Make Your Solution
Create a solution of 1 cup of bleach and 4 litres of water. Using the solution in a spray bottle is best if you can.
Alternatively, white vinegar is a natural cleaning option that you could use. However, if using white vinegar, apply it directly to the mould without diluting.
Other good alternatives for natural remedies include using baking soda, adding just a sprinkle to warm water, or using borax. Add 1 cup of borax to 4 litres of water, then sponge the mixture over the affected area.
6. Time to Scrub
Scrub the mould as hard as you can, leaving the mixture to settle on the surface once the scrubbing is finished. A stiff-bristled brush is one of the toughest tools you can use and is perfect for a mouldy ceiling.
You should then rinse away all residue, and repeat if necessary for stubborn mould.
How Can I Prevent Mould Growing?
Instead of waiting for a mould problem to appear, it is far better to prevent its growth in the first place. Follow these simple steps to stop mould forming in your roof cavity and on your ceiling. Or contact us; we specialise in roof repairs!
1. Ventilation
Mould in roof cavities can be unsightly. Prevent this from occurring by providing a well-ventilated space. Install roof windows or a whirlybird for expert ventilation in your home. Poor ventilation is bad for your home and your health!
Great ventilation and indoor air quality are better methods than using air conditioning. Let the humidity escape naturally instead of using energy with an air conditioner! Good ventilation will prevent condensation from settling in your ceiling space.
2. Stop Leaks
A leaking roof is another common cause of mould, so it pays to inspect your roof regularly, as a roof leak can lead to mould growth as well as other damage.
Ensure there are no lost or missing tiles, or cracks in the flashings or the pointing where rain can seep through. Moist air and a roof leak may cause issues for your bathroom ceiling. Preventing roof leaks will help keep your home mould-free. We can inspect your roof, so book in today.
3. Insulate
Good insulation helps to regulate the temperature of your home, keeping you warm and preventing humidity from being present. Ensuring that your wall cavities have appropriate insulation is key to preventing damp conditions caused by poor insulation. Great ceiling insulation will warm your home and reduce your energy bill.
Dealing With a Mouldy Roof? Get Expert Help From City2Surf Roofing. Call us today on 1300 296 842.
At City2Surf Roofing, we specialise in the installation of all types of roof materials, including terracotta tiles and concrete roofing. If you’re still not sure what material is right for you, please contact us today. We’d love to discuss your project in further detail. We are here to help you determine which type of roofing material is right for you.