Condensation is a common cause of dampness in buildings. Lack of adequate ventilation and modern occupancy styles can lead to a build up of excessive humidity and moisture. This poor indoor air quality can lead to serious health issues for asthma and allergy sufferers and those with breathing difficulties. It can also lead to mould growth and damage to wall coverings and fittings.
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| Condensation on window |
Condensation will generally be identified by one or more of the following:
• Observation of ‘black spot’ mould on internal surfaces.
• Presence of ‘liquid’ water on windows/walls or collecting on window cills/top of skirtings etc.
• High moisture readings on the surface only, with the substrate below being dry. This can be ascertained by:
(a) Peeling back wallpaper and comparing conductivity readings between the plaster surface and the wallpaper surface.
(b) On painted walls compare surface readings taken from the plaster with those from the painted surface.
(c) Take readings from the core of the wall with deep probes. Compare these with surface readings.
(d) Use radio frequency measurements to read through the surface and compare with conductivity measurements.
(e) Test moisture content of core and compare with surface readings.
• Identification of moisture profile obtained with an electronic moisture meter.
• Observation of building’s age, use, construction and method(s) of heating employed.
• Establishing if suitable conditions for condensation exist in the building by using a Hygrometer and Surface Thermometer.
• Observation of the general living conditions.
For serious cases of condensation and dampness, advice from a professional surveyor is recommended. To book a survey and for more information please click here.
