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What Helps Against a Cold Bridge?
To prevent cold bridges, the key is insulation. You can insulate exterior walls, interior walls, and cavity walls. Exterior wall insulation is the most drastic change, as it alters the appearance of your house and may require a permit. Interior walls can be insulated with false walls, a solution that doesn’t require a permit but does take up some interior space and requires repainting. Cavity wall insulation involves insulating the space between the inner and outer walls and can often be done without a permit.
Don’t forget about the roof, floors, and basement. Insulating the roof helps keep moisture out and prevent mold. Insulating floors and basements further reduces the chances of cold and moisture entering the home, especially in naturally damp basements. For some of these insulation tasks, it’s best to hire a professional, especially for cavity wall insulation.
What You Can Do to Prevent Mold Formation
In addition to structural causes, we as residents play a crucial role in preventing mold. Regular heating and ventilation are essential. Since energy prices increased in 2022, many of us have started heating less, which is great for saving money but not always great for our homes. Reduced heating means moisture lingers in the air longer, increasing the risk of mold.
Ventilation is just as important as heating. Damp, stale air must be expelled from the house, and fresh air must replace it. There should be continuous airflow throughout the home. If your home doesn’t have a mechanical ventilation system, make sure to open your windows for 15 to 20 minutes each day. After showering, dry the bathroom, but avoid opening the bathroom window on cold days—here’s why.
Cleaning
Do you already have mold in your home? It’s important to remove it promptly. Simple cleaning agents like vinegar or baking soda work well, while more stubborn stains may require a bit of chlorine. There are also commercial mold cleaners available, but make sure to read the instructions carefully. If the mold is deep in the walls, wood, or other materials, cleaning won’t suffice. In those cases, the affected materials need to be replaced.
By addressing moisture, improving ventilation, and insulating properly, you can significantly reduce the risk of mold in your home. And if you do spot mold, cleaning it quickly can prevent it from spreading.
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