Living in a damp and mouldy home can have serious consequences for your health. According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), as many as two million people in England are living in homes with significant damp and mould. This is a widespread issue that affects both homeowners and renters, with 26% of all renters reporting some degree of mould in their homes, as reported by Shelter in 2021.
The problem of mould and damp in homes is not to be taken lightly. It can lead to respiratory problems, allergies, and even infections. This is a major concern, especially for those with weakened immune systems, such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions. But what exactly causes mould and how can we prevent it from growing in our homes?
One of the main causes of mould is penetrating or rising damp, which are structural issues in a building. These problems require professional help to fix, but there is another factor that can contribute to the growth of mould – condensation and poor ventilation. This is where the concept of “burping” your home comes into play.
So what exactly is “burping” your home? It’s a term that may sound strange, but it is a simple and effective method to improve the air circulation and reduce excess moisture in your home. This method is similar to the German practice of “stoßlüften” or “shock ventilation.” By “burping” your home, you are essentially airing out your entire home at once, which helps to improve airflow and wick away excess moisture.
To “burp” your home, you need to open as many windows as possible for 10 minutes at a time. This will allow fresh air to circulate throughout your home and prevent condensation from building up. Helen O’Connor, a product manager at 247 Blinds, explains that this method helps to prevent the growth of mould as it thrives in areas with high moisture and humidity paired with low air circulation.
Mould and damp are most commonly caused by condensation, which occurs when a warmer surface (such as your home’s walls and windows) comes into contact with colder air. This can happen in any season, but it is more common in autumn and spring when the temperature difference between the inside and outside of a home is greater. By “burping” your home, you can equalize the temperature and decrease the likelihood of condensation occurring.
In addition to improving ventilation, “burping” your home can also be helpful in preventing mould growth in high-humidity areas like bathrooms and kitchens. O’Connor suggests leaving the windows open while cooking or taking a steamy shower, regardless of when you “burp” the rest of your home.
It’s important to note that “burping” your home is not a substitute for proper ventilation and maintenance. It is a simple and effective method to reduce excess moisture and improve air circulation, but it should be done in conjunction with other measures such as repairing leaks and improving insulation.
In conclusion, mould and damp in homes can have serious consequences for our health. By “burping” our homes, we can improve air circulation and reduce excess moisture, which can help prevent the growth of mould. This method is especially useful in autumn and spring when the temperature difference between the inside and outside of a home is greater. Remember to also take other measures to improve ventilation and maintain your home to prevent mould from becoming a problem. With a little effort, we can ensure that our homes are a healthy and safe place to live.
