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Damp and condensation

Did you know?

Some damp is caused by condensation. This can lead to a growth in the mould that appears as a cloud of little black dots.

Condensation occurs when moist air comes into contact with a colder surface like a wall, mirror etc. The air can’t hold the moisture and tiny drops of water appear. It also occurs in places where the air is still, like the corners of rooms or behind wardrobes and other furniture.

How to reduce condensation at home

Here are some tips to help you prevent condensation in your home:

  1. Produce less moisture by covering pans while you’re cooking and drying clothes outdoors. If you need to dry clothes indoors, create some ventilation by opening a window.
  2. Let fresh air in by opening your windows to let air circulate around your home and moving your furniture away from radiators and external walls.
  3. Heat your home a little more by keeping your heating on at a lower temperature for longer periods of time.
  4. Stop moisture spreading by using an extractor fan when you are cooking or in the shower/bath, and keep your kitchen and bathroom doors closed. Wipe condensation from windows each morning to prevent mould.

What are trickle vents?

Trickle vents are background ventilators that are fitted in window and door frames to let in a ‘trickle-feed’ of ventilation from outdoors.

Trickle vents are designed to:

  • Reduce condensation by removing excess moisture from the air that can cause mould
  • Regulate the temperature and humidity in your home to make the indoor climate more comfortable
  • Improve air quality by removing stale air and odours
  • Provide background ventilation even when windows are closed

The difference between damp and condensation

Damp occurs when a fault in the building’s basic structure lets water in from the outside. If you believe you are experiencing damp issues, please call 0117 914 4257 and a repairs inspector will attend to carry out a damp and mould inspection.

Condensation is not the only cause of damp

‘Penetrating damp’ is caused by moisture coming into the house through leaking or cracked pipework, a damaged roof, blocked guttering, gaps around window frames and cracked or defective rendering and brickwork. All these problems can be remedied.

‘Rising damp’ is due to a defective (or non-existent) damp course. This will leave a ‘tidemark’ about a metre above the floor.

If you think you are experiencing damp as a result of a defect in the building, please call: 0117 914 4257.