Condensation
Water droplets on your windows, walls and ceilings could be condensation. This happens when moisture in the air cools (condenses) into steam.
Causes:
• Intermittent heating – water vapour in warm air condenses when the temperature drops.
• Daily occurrences – cooking, showering and drying clothes produce water vapour, which can condense into water droplets.
• Poorly ventilated rooms – glazed windows, draught-proofing and insulation keep heat and water vapour trapped inside.
Symptoms:
• Water droplets.
• Dark mould.
• A strange or bad odour.
• Spoiled paintwork or plastering.
• Rotting window frames.
Solutions:
• Ventilation – improving the airflow in your home can reduce the levels of water vapour.
• Heating – having your heating constantly set on low can stop water vapour from cooling and condensing.
• Insulation – insulating your walls can prevent the development of cold patches that encourage condensation.
Rising damp
Rising damp is when water from the ground rises up through the floors and walls of your home.
Causes:
• Poor damp-proofing – this may be non-existent or in poor condition in older homes, allowing moisture to enter.
• Bridged damp-proofing – structural faults or a high ground level can allow moisture to bypass damp-proofing.
Symptoms:
• Damaged skirting boards, paintwork, wallpaper and plastering.
• Damp patches.
• Powdery residue.
• Dark mould.
Solutions:
• Damp-proofing – installing or reinstalling a damp-proof course or membrane can stop moisture seeping through the walls and floor.
• Find the source – repairing the source of the damage is the best way to prevent dampness from reappearing.
Penetrating damp
Moisture leaking through the walls of your home is called penetrating damp.
Causes:
• Leaks – water from leaks and burst pipes can cause dampness and moisture.
• Structural faults – damaged walls, roofing or guttering can make dampness and water damage more likely.
Symptoms:
• Dark mould.
• Damp patches.
• Rain causes further dampening.
Solutions:
• Maintenance and repair – keeping your roof and exterior walls in good shape can stop dampness from spreading inside.
• Cavity walls – cavity walls can prevent moisture from reaching the interior.
Mould
If you do see mould, try the following:
• Clean and sterilise the area with a fungicidal wash or spray.
• Repaint the area if needed using fungicidal paint.
• Dry clean any mouldy clothing or carpets.
• Take measures to stop the spread of condensation and damp.
Damp and mould may be unsightly, but they can also cause health problems if left untreated. Tackling the problem at the source can help stop it for good. And with boiler cover, you can deal with any central heating issues quickly before damp creeps in and mould appears.