What is damp?
Damp is a common issue in homes that can cause both structural damage and health risks. It occurs when excess moisture builds up, leading to problems like rising damp, penetrating damp and condensation. Damp can result from structural issues or lifestyle habits like poor ventilation. If left untreated, it can weaken walls, ruin finishes, and lead to mould.
There are three main types of damp problem:
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RISING DAMP is moisture from the ground entering walls​
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PENETRATING DAMP is water seeping in through leaks or cracks​
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CONDENSATION is warm, moist air meeting cold surfaces, often causing mould
Rising damp
Rising damp occurs when moisture from the ground travels up through your home's walls, often due to a failed or absent damp-proof course. This can lead to damp patches, peeling wallpaper, flaking paint, and even salt marks on walls. Over time, it can cause structural damage, such as rotting wood or crumbling plaster, and create a breeding ground for mould, which poses health risks. To prevent rising damp, it's essential to maintain a proper damp-proof course.
Penetrating damp
Penetrating damp occurs when water from outside seeps into a building, often due to damaged roof tiles, faulty gutters, or cracks in walls. Unlike condensation, which forms inside, penetrating damp comes from external sources and can affect any part of the home, causing damp patches, peeling paint, and mould. Left untreated, it can lead to structural damage and health risks. Regular maintenance, such as fixing leaks and clearing gutters, can help prevent it.
Condensation
Condensation damp is common in UK homes and occurs when warm, moist air hits cold surfaces, often in poorly ventilated areas like bathrooms and kitchens. This can lead to damp patches, peeling paint, and mould growth, which pose health risks, especially for those with respiratory issues. Improving ventilation is key - using extractor fans, opening windows, and maintaining a steady temperature helps. Insulation also plays a crucial role in preventing condensation by keeping surfaces warmer, reducing the likelihood of moisture buildup.
