How to Prevent and Remove Damp and Mould from your Garage

Damp and mould are a common sight in garages. In this article we break down the causes of damp and mould, show you how to identify it, and give you practical tips and solutions on how to stop damp and mould in garages.
 

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1. What causes damp and mould in garages

The most common causes of damp and mould in garages include: 

• Wide entrances: Garages often have wide entrances that not only allow vehicles but also water to get through during heavy rainfall. This can lead to water ingress and an increased risk of mould.
• Poor ventilation: Garages that have poor ventilation are more susceptible to condensation, which can lead to damp and mould. Running appliances like a drying machine in a garage without proper ventilation or a lack of air flow can also contribute to high humidity levels, creating a breeding ground for mould.

 

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• Water leaks: A common cause of damp in garages is water leaks from the roof or walls. These leaks can lead to water damage and the growth of mould.
• High humidity: Homes located in areas with high humidity are more susceptible to damp and mould, as the humidity in the air can settle on cold surfaces and create condensation.
• Rising Damp: This is a type of damp that is usually visible as damp on lower parts of the wall or floor. It is typically caused by moisture rising from the ground, and can lead to the growth of mould.
• Penetrating Damp: This type of damp can occur in any part of the garage. It is usually due to damage in waterproofing in a specific area, such as damaged guttering, which leads to water ingress and damp.
   

2. How to identify mould in garages

Mould can grow in garages if the conditions are right, and it's important to be able to identify it so that it can be properly removed. 

The most common types of mould are black mould, green mould, and white mould. Black mould is the most dangerous type of mould and can cause health problems if it's not removed. White mould is less dangerous but still needs to be removed. Green mould is the least dangerous.

Types of Mould in Garages:

Colour	Scientific Name	Pattern	Common Causes
Black	Stachybotrys Chartarum	Circular growth patterns	High humidity, poor ventilation, water leaks
Green	Cladosporium, Aspergillus, Penicillium	Algae-like growth
White	Sclerotinia sclerotiorum	Fluffy hair-like appearance

It's important to note that mould in any indoor environment can be dangerous to your health and can issues including headaches, nausea, and respiratory problems. If you notice a large amount of mould growths inside your garage, it's best to contact a professional to properly inspect and test for mould. 

3. How to prevent damp and mould in garages

Prevention is the key to tackling damp and mould in your garage. Here are some practical tips on how to stop things getting damp in your garage and preventing mould in the first place.

1. Proper ventilation: Garages should have proper ventilation to allow moisture to escape and to reduce condensation. This can be achieved by installing vents or windows in the garage.
2. Insulation: Insulating the walls, floors, and ceiling of the garage can help to keep the temperature inside the garage more consistent and reduce the chances of moisture buildup. You can buy self-adhesive insulation for garage doors in most DIY stores. Check out our guide on garage insulation to find out more.
3. Seal gaps and cracks: Use mould resistant sealant to fill any gaps or cracks in the walls, floors, and ceiling of the garage. Apply moisture-resistant paint once the sealant is dry.
4. Keep the garage dry: Use a dehumidifier or a moisture absorber to capture excess moisture and keep the humidity levels in the garage low. Sweep or mop the floor regularly to remove any standing water.
5. Properly store items: Store things in a damp garage on shelves or on wooden pallets to keep them off the garage floor. Put items plastic containers with tight fitting lids.
    

 

 

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4. Removing mould in garage

Removing mould from a garage can be a tricky task. Here are  tips on how to stop mould in a garage once you've found it:

• Protective gear: Wear a face mask, gloves, and goggles to protect yourself from mould spores. If there is a loud of mould, use a a HEPA vacuum cleaner to remove mould spores from the air.
• Identify the source: Look for any sources of moisture that may be contributing to the mould growth, such as leaks or high humidity levels. Address these issues before attempting to remove the mould.

 

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• Cleaning solution: Mix one cup of bleach with one gallon of water to create a cleaning solution. Cleaning with a solution of water and white vinegar can also be effective, as the acidity in the vinegar helps to kill mold spores.
• Scrub brush: Use a stiff-bristled scrub brush to scrub the mould away. Be sure to scrub the area thoroughly to remove all traces of mould.
• Rinse the area: After scrubbing, rinse the area with water to remove any remaining mould spores. Remember to dry the area thoroughly.

It's important to note that if the mould problem is extensive or if you have a sensitivity to mould, it's best to call in a professional for help.



We hope this guide has helped make your garage mould free. If you need to move the things stored in your garage while you deal with damp and mould, Stashbee has hundreds of garages to rent all over the UK.
 

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