Bathroom DIY - take action against damp

The winter months are characterised by cool, wet weather - which are the perfect conditions for mould and damp in your wet rooms.

Bathrooms frequently fall victim to damp as the mercury heads south, but with a bit of bathroom DIY know-how, you can keep your space mould-free this winter.

Begin by assessing the problem - knowing what causes the dampness and where it occurs most frequently will help you decide what action to take next.

Condensation - which results from moisture in the air and is often more visible after you take a bath or shower - often crops up in areas where air is less likely to circulate, such as in corners, around windows and behind cupboards or wardrobes. Other common causes of damp include leaks from pipes or even outdoor rainfall.

Once you've identified any signs of mould in your bathroom, you'll want to take swift action to kill and remove it - you'll find several cleaning product options at your local supermarket. Another option is to hire a dehumidifier to help manage condensation.

When the mould has been removed, the next step is to prevent it from coming back - installing an electric fan or adding additional insulation can help to keep air moving and ensure your home stays warm, meaning it is less likely to fall victim to mould and damp.

You might also want to consider painting with anti-damp paint - some formulations contain a fungicide to prevent mould and damp from reappearing.