Safeguard Europe stamp out mould in Swindon

8 Feb 2024

From November 2023 to January 2024, a team of over 150 volunteers came together to address a severe damp and mould problem at a Swindon bungalow. As well as an inspiring story of community spirit, this project offers worthwhile insights into effective damp and mould control. Read on to find out how Emerald Damp Specialists used Safeguard Europe products to solve these serious issues.

The problems

A central heating system leak in the bungalow led to extensive damp, causing structural damage and numerous health hazards including collapsed flooring and severe mould throughout. Find out more about black mould here.

Swindon’s location as one of the UK’s windiest areas means that wind-driven rain poses a risk to building health. The property’s north-facing gable wall receives less sunlight exposure than the rest of the house, which also means that rain takes longer to dry. Rain penetration into unprotected brick walls can damage brickwork and insulation, and lead to mould and algae growth. Find out more about penetrating damp here.

The solutions

The first step involved locating and fixing the central heating system leak. This required detailed inspection, repair and replacement work by gas and heating specialists. Next, the house underwent a thorough drying process. Industrial dehumidifiers and increased ventilation were used to remove excess moisture from the air and materials.

The next phase focused on assessing and repairing the damage caused by damp. This included the replacement of rotten structural wood, re-plastering, and a full kitchen refit, among other repairs.

The exterior wall was assessed for damage and potential future penetrating damp issues. Stormdry Masonry Protection Cream was applied to the north-facing gable wall as a preventative measure against penetrating damp and to ensure the wall remains in tip-top shape.

Stormdry Masonry Protection Cream is a BBA-approved waterproofing cream for brickwork, masonry, mortar, and concrete. It creates an invisible and breathable barrier that keeps walls dry to help them stay warm, shielding them from penetrating damp.

The internal walls and ceilings throughout the Swindon bungalow had extensive mould growth. The Emerald Damp Specialists team used the Dryzone Mould Removal and Prevention Kit to clean walls, ceilings, and surfaces throughout the property. They applied Dryzone Mould Eliminator directly to the mould spots using a low-pressure pump action sprayer. This treatment removed the worst of the black mould from the bathrooms, bedrooms, and living areas. Areas around windows and bay windows were also cleaned of black mould stain.

Once the walls and ceilings had dried, the team applied Dryzone Mould Sanitiser to the walls, waited 1 hour, then wiped clean. This ensured that all parts of the mould, including those not visible to the eye, were eradicated. The sanitiser kills mould spores upon contact with a powerful biocide, ensuring thorough black mould removal.

Finishing touches

Time for the finishing touches. The breathable open pore structure of Dryzone Anti-Condensation Paint delays condensation formation, allowing warm, moist air to ventilate out of the building and prevent the conditions for mould growth. Walls painted with Dryzone Anti-Condensation Paint feel warmer than those without.

The Emerald Damp Specialists team repainted the ceilings in the bungalow’s two bathrooms, applying two even coats of Dryzone Anti-Condensation Paint with medium pile paint rollers. Its matte white finish blends in with any style of bathroom.

All in all, the project was a resounding success. With the help of the community, the bungalow was transformed from a damp and dangerous space to a dry, healthy, and safe home.

For more information, check out the full case study here.

Contact:

Safeguard Europe,
Redkiln Close,
Horsham,
West Sussex,
United Kingdom,
RH13 5QL

Phone: 01403 210204
Fax: 01403 217529

Visit Safeguard Europe's website