Central Coast Home & Lifestyle Winter 2021

Moisture and Mould Problems I n order to reproduce, mould produces tiny particles called spores. Spores are carried in the air and may cause health problems if inhaled by people who are sensitive or allergic to them. These include a running or blocked nose, irritation of the eyes and skin and sometimes wheezing. Occasionally, people may have more severe reactions. Very rarely, people may develop a mould infection, usually in the lungs. It is important to note that most people will not experience any health problems from coming in contact with mould. People with asthma, allergies, or other breathing conditions may be more sensitive to mould. People with weakened immune systems (such as people with HIV, cancer patients or people who have received an organ transplant) and with chronic lung diseases (such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and emphysema) are more at risk of mould infection particularly in their lungs. Although mould can be found almost anywhere, it needs moisture and nutrients to grow. The key to preventing mould growth is reducing dampness in the home. This can be done by maintaining proper ventilation. Turn on exhaust fans, particularly when bathing, showering, cooking, doing laundry and Australian Geographic Camping & Outdoor Family Activity Guide • Brand new book by Australian Geographic, perfect for the lifestyle of Australians in 2021 and beyond • Activities for kids of all ages, from pre- school to teens • Not just for camping, includes park and backyard activities Engagingly illustrated, this latest book from Australian Geographic is packed with hundreds of outdoor and camping activities you can enjoy as a family when camping, visiting your local park…or even just in your own backyard! Family campers will find everything they need to know, including what to pack, equipment needed, campfire recipes, games and outdoor skills. Teenagerswill enjoy learninghowtouse their devices to engage in nature with geocaching, becoming a citizen scientist or even filming a documentary. In your own backyard there are

problem. It is good to remove mould as soon as it appears. Thismay takesomeeffort. Remember that mould is likely to return unless you also take steps to treat the cause of the problem. If you rent your home and have taken measures to ensure the building is properly ventilated and mould is still growing, you should raise the issue with the owner or real estate agent. For routine clean up of mouldy surfaces, use mild detergent or vinegar diluted in water solution (4 parts vinegar to 1 part water). Regularly scheduled pressure washings are great ways to save money on costly exterior home repairs. Your home is also the home to a variety of different contaminants, such as dirt, mould, mildew and algae – some of which can be life-threatening. Pressure washing not only your home but your driveway, walkway, porch and patio can help prevent these bacteria from growing and prevent injuries caused by slipping and falling.

drying clothes. Open windows when weather permits, to improve cross ventilation, limit the use of humidifiers, fish tanks and indoor plants as well as the use of unflued gas heaters. Repair all water leaks and plumbing problems e.g. burst water pipes, leaking roof or blocked rain gutters. If water enters your home, completely clean and dry water- damaged carpets and building materials. Discard material that cannot be cleaned and dried completely. Rising damp is ground moisture rising up a brick or stone wall. Poor sub-floor ventilation or moisture in the sub-floor area will worsen the problem. This can be fixed by installing a new dampcourse or waterproof barrier in the wall. Ensure the weep holes and air vents at the base of your home are uncovered. If you have rising or lateral damp an experienced building consultant can check the 'damp course' and recommend ways to fix the activities for the whole family, with ideas for outdoor movie nights, backyard camping and Olympic games events, as well as sensory play experiences for younger kids. Whether you’re planning a camping trip or simply want to get your kids off their screens and playing outside, there are plenty of exciting activities to get your entire family making the most of the great outdoors. About the Author: Catherine Proctor is a freelance author, digital storyteller and editor who has also written and co-authored several other books for Australian Geographic and Woodslane, including The Caravan & Campervan Cookbook; Australian Geographic Blue Mountains; Sydney for Dogs; Sydney’s Best Picnic Spots, Parks and Reserves; and Sydney’s Best Beaches and Rock Baths. With a surf-mad husband, two active boys and a passion for travel, Catherine’s weekends and holidays have always revolved around getting out into the great outdoors as much as possible. Camping & Outdoor Family Activity Guide RRP $39.99 Available in all good bookstores or online at www.booktopia.com.au

26 Home & Lifestyle Magazine | Winter 2021