TRYING to keep the house warm while it's cold outside is hard enough. But add in the challenge of attempting to keep condensation at bay, preventing the growth of mould in the process, and it seems near on impossible. However, according to one expert, there's an exact temperature you need to maintain indoors this winter if you want to keep mould at bay.
"Proper ventilation is the cornerstone of mould prevention," Paul Kershaw, the founder of building material supplier Tradefix Direct , explained. "Even during winter, it's crucial to regularly air out your home. "Ensure that fans and ventilation systems are functioning optimally, and seal windows and doors to prevent moisture intrusion.
"Inspect pipes for leaks and the roof for potential water damage. "Additionally, maintaining a consistent indoor temperature above 15 degrees Celsius can help deter mould growth." There are also some signs to watch out for if you're worried about mould growing - as it can be "easily overlooked" when it appears as "small, discoloured spots on walls".
"As it progresses, these spots enlarge and merge, creating larger, more noticeable patches," Paul continued. "Mould can appear in various colours, including green, black, or white, and may initially resemble stains. "Larger patches of mould have a fuzzy texture.
" And when it comes to getting rid of the mould, don't use water, as Paul warned that doing so can "exacerbate the problem, causing it to spread and further stain the wall". Instead, try vine.