Do You Have Walls Like This And Think Its Rising Damp?
What a lot of people don't realise is that condensation is caused by an imbalance of heat and ventilation, and to a lesser p[art for this discussion, insulation. Modern lifestyles involves moisture is produced in the home, but condensation can occur even in the warmest atmospheres, if the excess moisture can't get out, which is tricky in the winter when the air outside is cold and damp.
In 2021, 5.8 million British tenants have been affected by damp or condensation issues. Condensation damp is most often mistaken for rising damp by even the most time served experts often. So what is the difference between rising damp, penetrative damp and condensation dampness?
Often, condensation occurs at low levels where the surface of the wall is coolest, starting in a corner and then spreading along the length of the wall. This may appear to be rising damp and can easily be confused.
Condensation problems within a building are usually indicative of humidity and ventilation problems within a property. It is often believed to be caused by building defect, but that is usually not the case. Buildings with inadequate ventilation leave the moisture trapped inside the building, which leads to condensation problems to grow quickly.
One of the most common signs of condensation is black mould which can occur on any walls of the property. This compared to rising damp where if mould is present it will only occur on the ground floor of the property.
Water will collect on windows is a common symptom of condensation in homes.
Plaster will start to deteriorate if the condensation problem is not treated quickly. The walls will also appear wet.
