Condensation around the home
Condensation is something that occurs in many London homes. Sometimes, we are so familiar with seeing it that we don’t pay much attention when it appears. Unfortunately, this can lead to us overlooking the importance of damp proofing. Without proper care, condensation can lead to mould in our homes, plaster blistering, and even mould inside the walls. If you regularly experience condensation in your home, it is best to be on the safe side and get a professional to check it out.
You may have noticed condensation in your London property. But what causes it?
During winter months when the central heating is on, moisture in the warm air indoors will condense on the cool surface of any glass or metal. This is particularly noticeable on older single-glazed windows and doors.
Depending on the layout of your London home, it can also be caused by other factors. If your property is old and has poor ventilation, household activities such as showering, drying clothes inside, or cooking will likely lead to additional condensation, which can eventually lead to excessive buildup of moisture in the walls.
In the summer, properties are normally less prone to condensation, due to the increased ventilation from open windows and doors, plus the fact that there is less difference in the temperature inside and out.
What if there is excess condensation?
When condensation appears repeatedly, it will likely lead to a buildup of dampness and mould in your house. It starts with moisture on the walls, but without proper mould prevention, it can become a serious problem that threatens the structural integrity of a building and poses several risks to our health.
Sometimes properties experience more condensation than is usually expected. This is displayed by the following symptoms:
- Obvious amounts of water pooling on window ledges
- Metal surfaces away from outer walls showing dampness
- A cold and clammy feeling to the air in the property
- Mould beginning to accumulate on walls & ceilings
- In cases like these, there may be an issue with the ventilation and air flow around your property. The team at London Damp Proofing can diagnose and suggest improvements, once we've visited to evaluate the root cause.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms in your property, it is essential to seek the help of a mould prevention or waterproofing specialist. When water begins to build up in our homes, it can lead to serious problems that will break the bank. We are here to make sure that doesn’t need to happen.
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London Home Condensation Treatment
Water pouring inside structures or seeping from outside is the most typical cause of a damp house or business. The following frequently occur reasons for moisture penetration:
- Guttering and downspouts that are broken or missing - If rain isn’t properly diverted, it can pool around a building’s foundation.
- Roof cracks/damage or missing roof tiles - This doesn’t just let water in, it can be detrimental to the ventilation of our homes.
- Water pipe leaks or central heating failure - This can cause moisture to be released internally, leading to excessive condensation on numerous surfaces.
- Insufficient ventilation - Without sufficient airflow in a building, it causes dampness in walls, problems with cavity wall insulation, and other issues.
- Poor drainage systems - Inadequate drainage can cause rising damp, water ingress, and act as a catalyst for condensation in our homes.
- Brickwork and pointing damage - Cracked bricks and damaged mortar joints give entry points to unwanted rainwater, which can be absorbed by our walls, deteriorate the structure, and exacerbate condensation issues.
We would also advise caution when installing cavity wall insulation, especially in buildings that are unsheltered, receive severe rain regularly, or have weak masonry.
Some types of insulation can reduce airflow around a house, but more crucially, they can bridge gaps across the exterior and the interior walls, allowing moisture to 'wick' through during wet weather.
Steps That Might Help Reduce Condensation in Your Home
- Using a dehumidifier can help reduce moisture
- Drying clothes outdoors will lower moisture levels in the air
- Using pan lids while cooking can reduce steam
- Servicing the extractor fans in our kitchen and bathroom can enhance ventilation
- Closing bathroom and kitchen doors while popping a window open will allow humidity to escape.
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FAQ's
"Signs of a condensation problem can be quite varied and may include:
Visible mould on walls and ceilings
A musty smell on the property
Water droplets on windows or walls
Water pooling on window ledges
Metal surfaces away from outer walls show signs of dampness
A cold and clammy feeling to the air on the property
Mould begins to accumulate on walls and ceilings"
How can London Damp Proofing help with condensation issues?
Our experienced damp proofing team can perform a survey to investigate your excess condensation. The cause(s) can be rapidly identified and resolved, often with the application of cost effective treatments.
Advice and recommendations can be given to highlight the best options for you, described in an approachable and easy-to-understand manner. Just call us today or fill out our form below.
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