Condensation, Damp & Mould

    Rising damp, penetrating damp, and condensation are the three most common types of damp that can affect a home. There are many ways to control the conditions that lead to damp and strategies to reduce or eliminate it entirely.

    What is Rising Damp?

    Rising damp impacts ground floor rooms and results from groundwater seeping into walls and floors. Typically, this occurs due to malfunctioning damp proof courses or membranes. The signs of rising damp are evident at ground level, primarily near skirting boards, showing as visible stains resembling tide marks and paint flaking. Poor drainage or obstructed drains can contribute to the occurrence of rising damp.

    What is Penetrating Damp?

    Typical sources of penetrating damp include obstructed or deteriorated guttering and downpipes. Additionally, issues such as damaged roof valleys, broken or cracked roof tiles, compromised coverings, or faulty flashings can contribute. Leaking pipework concealed within walls, floors, or roof spaces is another potential cause.

    Penetrating damp manifests as damp patches on walls or ceilings, often darkening during rainfall.

    What is Condensation?

    Condensation occurs inside your home when moist air comes into contact with a cold surface. This results in the formation of small drops of moisture on cool surfaces such as walls, windows, tiles, and mirrors.

    Condensation can be caused by excessive moisture in the air, lack of ventilation, and/or insufficient heating. when excessive moisture accumulates It can lead to the formation of black mould on walls, window frames, carpets, and soft furnishings if not addressed promptly. In addition to emitting an unpleasant odour, mould can pose serious health risks, especially for individuals with respiratory issues like asthma.

    Condensation is most common in kitchens and bathrooms where high levels of moisture are produced due to increased activity. Taking the necessary steps to manage condensation in your home can reduce the risk of further issues developing.

    Here are some tips to prevent and manage condensation in your home:

    • Ensure adequate ventilation by keeping wall, ceiling and window vents open and opening windows whenever possible.
    • Don’t cover radiators with curtains or furniture. Keep a space behind furniture to allow air movement and avoid placing furniture against external walls.
    • Use a cloth to dry windowsills and window frames regularly to remove excess moisture.
    • Use your extractor fan when showering, bathing, or cooking. Let fans run or leave windows open for at least 15 minutes afterwards.
    • Do not block or cover any vents or extractor fans in your property.
    • Cover pans with lids while cooking to reduce steam.
    • If drying clothes indoors, keep the room door closed and consider using an extractor fan or dehumidifier.
    • Ensure all rooms are adequately heated even if rarely used.
    • Properly ventilate your tumble dryer to prevent contributing to indoor condensation.
    • Treat mould with a proprietary mould treatment following the manufacturer’s instructions.

    These practices will help maintain a healthier indoor environment by controlling moisture levels and reducing the risk of mould growth.