by David Sutcliffe

Created on: January 09, 2010   Last Updated: January 13, 2010

How To Spot Condensation Damp

Damp walls and damp cellars are affected by Condensation Damp which is basically due to our living style. We do a lot of thing on regular basis which aggravate the moisture content in the air of our building and homes which directly affect the level of condensation damp. An average person expels approximately 5 pints of moisture a night just while sleeping. In addition, cooking, bathing, and showering increase moisture levels in the atmosphere.

Due to lack of natural ventilation, there is constant change in air temperature, when wall surfaces are damp and cold or when radiators have been used excessively to dry clothes, then condensation can occur. Air molecules are larger when they are warm and so they can hold more atmospheric moisture. When air cools the molecules reduce in size and are not able to hold same amount of moisture and so deposit excess moisture on the surroundings. This can appear as wet patches or black spot penicillium mould. Both have detrimental affects to internal finishes and the spores of mould manifest permanently in the wall plaster.

Condensation damp can also be a health hazard especially to those who already have respiratory health problems.

Dealing With Condensation Damp

A full damp tanking system should be employed to the damp cellar, for below ground condensation damp problems. It is important to put up increased and regular levels of ventilation to alleviate regular air changes within a room, when dealing with above ground condensation damp. Some form of mechanical ventilation or climate control should be introduced, if it is not achieved naturally.

In turn, some attention must be given to the surfaces where the condensation is occurring particularly if damp mould has been present. Many people have realized that by using standard cleaning products or bleach it could be a futile exercise trying to eliminate penicillium mould as it keeps returning. If the spores of the mould have manifested themselves then the only option might be to remove the wall plaster or apply an impermeable damp proof membrane over the affected area.

Application of Damp Proof Membranes

Damp Proof Membranes can be applied to damp walls affected by condensation damp, staining and mould and penetrating damp. The recommended High Density Polypropylene and Polyethylene damp proof membranes would be moulded into a stud formation which creates an air gap behind the system. The impervious nature of the damp proof membrane coupled with the 'egg

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