Damp & condensation: the differences, and when to be concerned

When it comes to moisture inside a building, many people are understandably concerned. Rising damp, penetrating damp, and condensation are terms often related to alarming scenarios involving structural damage or danger to someone’s health.

At Biocraft South West, we have an extensive history of providing damp surveys and remedial services, alongside tackling the cause of condensation. It is important to know the key differences between damp and condensation, and when it is a cause for concern to ensure the safety of yourself and your building.

Firstly, it is important to know that damp and condensation – whilst often connected – are entirely different symptoms and can show up independent of the other.

Damp deconstructed:

Damp is characterised by near permanent wet patches around the building, typically within the walls – whether that is rising damp in the wall due to excessive moisture seeping in from the ground (find out more about that on our previous blog post), or penetrative damp that has appeared due to an issue with your brickwork or a leak. This will often cause aesthetic issues such as damage to plaster, or warping of skirting boards, but can progress to causing mould and (in some cases) dangerous structural faults.

Damp anywhere is a building is always a concern, and damp proofing work will need to be undertaken by specialists to ensure no further risk to you or the building itself.

Condensation clarified:

Condensation, however, can both be a symptom of damp, but also just something that exists on its own. Condensation in your home will happen when there is excess moisture in the air that is rapidly cooled when it hits a cooler surface. This will often appear on metal or glass surfaces, such as appliances or windows.

This can happen as part of normal household function. Taking a warm shower on a cold morning may result in condensation on windows and mirrors. A small amount of condensation in this circumstance is typically a non-issue, but it is still recommended to ensure you take steps to ensure moisture isn’t retained. These steps can include:

• Opening windows
• Using extractor fans
• Maintaining a consistent and moderate temperature indoors
• Ensuring general air flow is not restricted

If you are experiencing condensation constantly or are noticing condensation in places you wouldn’t expect – this may be indicative of an issue with excess moisture within the building. This excess moisture may potentially be damp, but it also may be an indication that the building is poorly heated, vented, or insulated. This is a cause for concern and should be addressed as soon as possible.

If you have any queries regarding the above information, head on over to our contact page where you can get expert advice from our damp proofing specialists.

What problems are caused by damp and condensation?

Regardless of their source, damp and condensation can both cause a myriad of problems within a building. Damp will exist deeper within the structure of a building and can cause serious structural damage to brickwork or carpentry if left untreated.

Both damp and condensation can cause the aesthetic of a building to suffer – wallpaper and paint may peel, and in the case of condensation, may degrade the appearance of window seals.

There is also an element of health concern. Excess moisture in any form will encourage the growth of mould within a building – particularly black mould (stachybotrys chartarum), which is known to cause breathing issues, eye irritation, and can worsen symptoms for those with asthma.

What can be done to handle damp and condensation?

Damp and condensation can be quite pesky to get rid of. Whilst there are measures you can take to reduce the effects of damp or condensation – once it becomes an issue, it is incredibly stubborn and will not resolve on its own without intervention.

The best solution is to contact an experienced damp proofing specialist such as Biocraft South West. With our team of experts, we can provide a solution that ensures any damp or condensation is resolved at the source.

We are also happy to provide advice and answer any queries, so you can rest easy that you’re armed with the right knowledge to protect your home or assets. Our expert team is ready to help – get in touch today!