Is your home ready for the monsoon? A guide to protecting interiors

Monsoon is a season many in Bangladesh look forward to. The fresh air, the pitter-patter of rain, the relief from the heat, all feel refreshing.

However, for apartment dwellers, especially in older buildings or compact high-rises, the season brings more than just overcast skies. It brings damp corners that never fully dry, swollen wooden cabinets, musty-smelling wardrobes, and moisture that lingers long after the rain has stopped.

These problems aren't always dramatic or immediate, which is why they're so often ignored. However, over time, unchecked moisture can cause long-term damage.

Walls, ceilings, and floors: The first line of defence against moisture

In many Bangladeshi apartments, particularly older ones, walls and ceilings often suffer from dampness during the monsoon season. Mushfiqur Rahman, an interior designer based in Dhaka, points out that a major cause of this is water collecting on terraces or balconies located above living spaces, which then seeps down and affects the interiors.

"Without proper waterproofing, rainwater slowly seeps through, causing paint to peel, walls to become damp, and sometimes even leading to mould," he said.

To protect your interiors, start outside and work your way in. Clearing the terrace and balcony drains before and during the monsoon is crucial. Inside the apartment, moisture-resistant paint is a must, especially on outer walls and ceilings. This paint helps prevent dampness and fungal growth, which are common issues in Bangladesh's humid climate. It's also important to check for cracks or gaps in walls and floors and seal them promptly.

Flooring needs special attention, too, especially in apartments where balconies and window thresholds often act as gateways for rainwater. These spots are frequently overlooked, particularly when balcony door seals are worn out or missing, allowing rain to splash straight into living areas.

For wooden floors, taking preventive action before the rains arrive is essential. A high-quality waterproof sealant should be applied to all wooden surfaces to protect them from absorbing moisture. This layer acts like a shield, preventing water from penetrating the wood fibres, which helps avoid swelling, warping, and eventual cracking.

Tile floors also benefit from regular maintenance. Ensuring grout lines are intact and resealing them when needed stops water from seeping beneath tiles and causing them to loosen or break. Any cracks or gaps in tiled flooring should be repaired quickly to prevent further damage.

Absorbent mats are also a great option at such entry points, as they can help reduce moisture intrusion. Washable mats are also a safer choice than heavy carpets that tend to hold on to moisture.

Furniture and storage: Guarding from humidity

Monsoon humidity in Bangladesh affects furniture quietly but severely. Wooden pieces can warp and swell, upholstery can absorb moisture and develop odours, and wardrobes can become breeding grounds for mould if not properly managed.

Mushfiqur recommends keeping furniture away from damp walls to allow airflow, which helps prevent moisture buildup. "Direct contact with a damp wall can ruin wood and fabric quickly," he warns. Elevating wooden furniture off the floor using small rubber pads or blocks keeps it safer from wet floors or seepage.

During the rainy season, switching to synthetic or quick-drying fabrics for cushions and upholstery makes cleaning and drying easier. For storing clothes and linens, breathable fabric covers are far better than plastic bags, which trap moisture and encourage mould growth.

Regularly airing out cushions, mattresses, and stored items is another simple but effective way to keep dampness at bay.

Balconies and airflow: Managing moisture where it starts

Many Bangladesh apartments turn damp during monsoon, often cluttered and waterlogged. "Balconies without proper drainage or shelter quickly turn into sources of dampness for the whole apartment," says Mushfiqur.

To keep balconies dry and usable, installing sloped flooring or drainage mats can be a good option as it encourages quick runoff, preventing water from stagnating. Mushfiqur adds that transparent rain guards can reduce direct rainfall without blocking light or air, allowing you to use your balcony even during drizzle.

Inside the apartment, airflow plays a crucial role in controlling moisture buildup. Narrow lanes and dense urban layouts in Bangladesh limit natural ventilation.

Cross-ventilation, having airflow from one side of the apartment to the other, is crucial. This means keeping windows open on both ends of the apartment when possible, even if only slightly. If that's not feasible due to rain or building layout, running ceiling fans and exhaust fans more frequently helps circulate trapped moisture.

While air conditioning reduces humidity temporarily, it's not a permanent fix. Mushfiqur points out that if the apartment isn't well-ventilated, moisture will still build up in corners and places where the cool air doesn't reach.

Understanding how moisture travels through your apartment and taking thoughtful steps to control it will keep your space dry, fresh, and protected all season long. As Mushfiqur concludes, "It's about knowing your home's weak spots and acting on them early. With consistent care, you can enjoy the monsoon without worrying about hidden damage."