I have had many conversations with my clients about the problems associated with having a damp, moldy and musty smelling home. They all seem to be suffering from one or more of these problems and I have tried to help them solve their problem by using the following methods:
- Remove all the water in the attic. If you have an open roof this can be done by using a hose to blow out the water and then a fan to dry the roof. You can also use a dehumidifier to remove moisture from the air in the attic.
- Make sure that there are no leaks in the roof and that they are sealed. This will help keep the water out of your attic.
- If you have a fireplace or wood stove in the house, make sure that it is not vented into the attic. This will cause condensation to form on the walls and ceiling of the attic.
- Seal all openings in the attic such as vents, pipes, etc. This will help keep the air in the attic dry.
- Install a ventilation system in the attic if needed. This will help move the air through the attic and allow it to dry.
- If you have a crawl space under your house, make sure that it has a good ventilation system installed in it so that the air can circulate and dry out the space.
- If you have a basement, make sure that it has good ventilation installed so that the air can circulate down there and dry it out.
- Install an exhaust fan in your bathroom to remove moisture from the air.
- If you have a bathroom, make sure that it is well ventilated and dry.
- Clean out the gutters on your house. Make sure that they are clean and free of debris.
- Check the exterior of your house for cracks or holes where moisture can enter. Repair any cracks or holes immediately.
- Use a dehumidifier in the basement if necessary.
- Make sure that all your appliances are properly grounded.
- If you have a furnace or air conditioner in the house, make sure it is not vented into your attic. This will cause condensate to form on the walls and ceilings of the attic.
- Install a ventilation system in your attic if needed. This will allow the air to circulate and dry out the space.