Why Condensation Damp is a Big Problem in UK Homes

Why Condensation Damp is a Becoming a More Common Problem in UK Homes

By Ruth MacEachern

Product Manager

Condensation Damp is on the rise in the UK, driven by damper weather and residents scaling back on their heating to reduce energy costs.  It is one of the common types of damp and currently affects as many as 1 in 5 homes in the country.  Unless it is properly dealt with, the damp caused by condensation can create the conditions for large patches of black mould to grow on walls and ceilings, which can be damaging to the health of residents, causing problems such as:

• Respiratory illness
• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Allergies
• Depression
• Sneezing
• Skin rashes

The spores that mould uses to spread are a major allergen that can cause severe reactions in some people with weaker immune systems and those with asthma.

Unlike the other major types of damp – penetrating and rising damp – which are the result of issues with the envelope of the building, Condensation Damp is caused by our day to day living.

Condensation is becoming more of a problem for residents

Condensation occurs when warm, humid air meets cold surfaces such as exterior walls and windows.  The amount of moisture from day-to-day activities such as cooking, bathing, and even breathing that can be held by the air in our homes is related to temperature.  As the air cools at night, or in colder parts of the home, the amount of moisture is reduced, and this forms droplets of condensation on the surfaces that the air meets. Unless it is dealt with, condensation soaks into the surface of the wall where it forms the damp patches that damage the plaster work, cause wood to rot, and act as the perfect environment for mould to grow.

Some of the measures that we take to make our homes more energy efficient seal the home and reduce natural airflow and ventilation.  This includes the use of double glazing, draught excluders, and insulation in walls and lofts.  Preventing warm, damp air from leaving the house means that humidity builds up to higher levels and worsens condensation.

Ventilation is the cure for condensation

Good ventilation is the best prevention when it comes to stopping condensation.  Allowing air to circulate around the home prevents humidity building up to high levels ini one specific area where it can more easily cool and condense.  It also helps to prevent air from becoming stale and improves indoor air quality.

During the warmer summer months, improving home ventilation is easy – simply open a window – however this is not always practical.  For example, if you live in an urban area where outdoor pollution is a problem, or suffer from hay fever, this may not always be an option.

Modern ventilation systems, from simple extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms that expels moist air from cooking and bathing through to whole house Positive Input Ventilation systems improve air circulation and reduce condensation throughout your home.

Find out more

If your house is suffering from condensation, and you are concerned about the potential risk to your health that mould can cause, please arrange a free survey with your local condensation and ventilation specialist who will be happy to talk you through the best course of action.