Condensation in homes is a very common problem that is becoming more and more prevalent. According to specialists, 5.8 million renters have reported condensation during their tenancy. Condensation occurs when moisture-laden air comes into contact with cold surfaces, such as windows or walls. This is referred to as the Dew Point.
When air is warm, it can hold greater amounts of moisture, this is called humidity.
When humid air strikes a cold spot (such as a poorly insulated ceiling or wall) the moisture is given up and released. This is referred to as condensing.
Left unaddressed, the issue of condensation can result in mould growth, rot, and other damage to the building fabric.
Diagnosis of Condensation and Possible Solutions
The first step in the diagnostics of condensation in a house is to establish the areas where it is occurring.
Common places to find condensation include windows, walls, and ceilings. If mould is present, it’s important to identify the type of mould, as different types can be dangerous to health.
Another important factor to take into consideration when diagnosing condensation is ventilation.
Poor ventilation can lead to high humidity levels as moisture-laden air has nowhere to go. As you can appreciate, the air within your home will become laden with moisture when you cook, run the bath or have a shower, for example.
If the rooms within the house are not suitably ventilated (providing air changes) then the risk of condensation is high. Ventilation doesn’t have to be provided by mechanical means, such as an extractor fan. Openable casement windows and trickle vents allow for passive and purge ventilation to ensure that the rooms reach an equilibrium.
In order to properly diagnose condensation, it is important to undertake a holistic assessment of the property.
It is wrong to assume that condensation is merely due to lifestyle choices. It is also wrong to assume that damp readings alone, mean that condensation is occurring.
A hygrometer can be used to measure humidity levels. In most cases, a Chartered Surveyor will use a Hygrometer to measure the Relative Humidity. If the humidity level in a house is above 60%, it is likely that condensation is occurring at that moment in time. Once the property cools, and the Dew point is reached, it is almost certain that moisture will be released from the air and present itself as condensation.
There are many other tests that a Chartered Surveyor may undertake to better understand why the property is experiencing dampness.
Our Surveyors use thermographic cameras to establish thermal differentials and any sources of heat loss (such as poor window seals, lack of insulating mass to building elements and poor workmanship) that may be exacerbating dampness.
Once the problem has been properly diagnosed, there are several steps that can be taken in order to address it.
Improving ventilation is one of the most effective ways to reduce condensation. This can be done by installing vents or by opening windows to allow fresh air to circulate. Most landlords are encouraged to install a PIV system to encourage air changes.
Another solution is to insulate the house, particularly in areas where cold surfaces are causing condensation. This can be done by adding insulation to walls, floors, and ceilings.
When doing so, we always strongly recommend that you take into account the construction form of the property and ensure that ventilation is not compromised as a result. Most insulating works will likely require Building Regulation Approvals.
Finally, it is important to address any mould growth that may have occurred as a result of the condensation. This can be done by removing any mouldy materials and cleaning the affected area with a fungicidal solution.
In summary, condensation in houses is a common problem caused by moisture in the air coming into contact with cold surfaces.
We often see condensation diagnosed when in actual fact the issue is more concerning (such as rising damp or rainwater ingress) and we would therefore always recommend that you instruct a Chartered Surveyor to conduct a Pre-purchase survey
