Condensation
Condensation is by far the most common cause of dampness in buildings, probably accounting for the majority of damp problems reported. It affects both old and new buildings, but it appears to be a significant problem where the building has been modernised.
Condensation is directly associated with mould growth. It is this that the occupier sees first, and it gives an indication of the potential scale of the problem. The mould is usually found on decorative surfaces, especially wallpapers, where it can cause severe and permanent spoiling. In many cases, the mould and its spores ('seeds') give rise to complaints about health, and cause the "musty" odour frequently associated with a damp house.
The obvious places for condensation to occur are on cold walls, windows, and floors, but it can also occur in roof spaces and in sub-floor areas where there is a timber suspended floor; in the latter case, it can lead to Dry rot or Wet Rot developing in floor timbers.
Control of Condensation
The control of condensation is based on two very simple primary measures, supported by a number of secondary measures.
Primary Measure 1 - Improve Ventilation
This will sweep away the internal moisture-laden air and replace it with drier air from the outside (yes, external air is drier than internal air most of the year!)
Mechanical ventilation such as Humidifier fans and the Positive Pressure System should be considered.
Primary Measure 2 - Improve Heating
Coupled with ventilation, heating should be set or applied to give a low-level background heat. This will ensure no rapid changes to the environment, and will facilitate slight warming of wall surfaces over a period of time, thus reducing the risk of condensation.
Secondary Measures
Coupled with ventilation, heating should be set or applied to give a low-level background heat. This will ensure no rapid changes to the environment, and will facilitate slight warming of wall surfaces over a period of time, thus reducing the risk of condensation.
Professional Assistance
In situations where a condensation problem is persistent, it may be necessary to employ the services of a professional company to correctly diagnose the factors causing the condensation problem and implement measures to control it. If you would like a quote from a professional company within our coverage area please email me or call 01793 238738 for your survey.
Why Use Damp Shop Services for your condensation issues?
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How do we diagnose Condensation?
We have a variety of latest technology for diagnosing which damp you have:
What to do next:
In situations where a condensation problem is persistent, it may be necessary to employ the services of an experienced surveyor to correctly diagnose the factors causing the condensation problem and implement measures to control it. If you would like a quote from a professional company in our coverage area that offers a condensation control service, please email me or call us on 01793 238738.
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