Removing mould or moss

Winter damp can bring some unwelcome visitors - slippery paths, shabby roofs, ruined clothes and unsightly paintwork. The culprits are mould, mildew, lichen or moss. Here's how to deal with them.

Mould and mildew

Mould and mildew are types of fungi. The spores are everywhere, but to grow they need moisture. To combat the problem, try the following:

• Use heating to increase the air temperature.
• Install extractor fans in the bathroom, laundry and kitchen.
• If the ground under your house is wet, cover with polythene sheeting, taping the joints and ensuring a fit around the piles.
• Make sure the air vents in your home's foundations are clear.
• Increase the airflow in your home by opening windows or install a forced ventilation system.
• Remove moisture from the air using a chemical moisture absorber or a dehumidifier.

But what about existing mould? There are many products on the market which claim to help but if you want to save some money, use household bleach - possibly in a spray bottle. This uses the same main active ingredient (sodium hypochlorite) as more expensive products. Whichever you use, remember to follow the instructions and test on a small area first.

Moss and lichen

Slippery moss pathways and steps can be quite a danger. Again, dampness is the cause. To lessen the build-up, keep the area clear of dead leaves and other debris, and remove overhanging vegetation. In extreme cases you may want to install drainage alongside the path to catch seeping water.

To remove existing moss or lichen you could use either a water blaster or chemicals. A water blaster is relatively quick - but messy, and they can damage asphalt paths and driveways. With chemical treatment, simply apply to the problem area, wait a couple of weeks, then hose off the debris. Domestic disinfectant uses the same active ingredient as some specialist moss/lichen products (although some do have additional ingredients to assist with cleaning).

As a starting point we suggest you try a supermarket bulk-brand disinfectant - look for one with the strongest concentration of alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride. When applying, try not to splash surrounding plants as they may be damaged. And whatever you do, don't mix household chemicals yourself, as this can create poisonous gas.