Damp occurs when there is excess unwanted moisture in the air that has no way of escaping. Excess moisture can be caused by steam when cooking, drying clothes inside the home and perspiration caused through showering and bathing. Any building or plumbing problems that allow water/moisture into the property can lead to damp problems. The most common factors that allow moisture into a property include poor ventilation, leaking roof, failed damp proof course and plumbing problems such as a leaking washing machine or dishwasher.
Walls can become damp for a multitude of different reasons. Damp problems in walls are often only noticed once internal damp symptoms become apparent. Such symptoms include damp patches, black mould growth, hygroscopic salt contamination and crumbling plaster.
Damp can affect any type of home, older buildings for example were designed to be naturally ‘breathable’ and allow damp air to evaporate out of the house. The removal of existing chimneys and energy-saving measures, such as fitting air-tight double glazing, can reduce ventilation in old homes, and create a condensation problem. Whereas in newer homes, often the properties have not been left to dry and water used when building is still existent creating excess moisture in the air.
Damp problems can be a serious concern in any home, whether you are a home-owner or renter, or living in any style of property. At best it can be a nuisance and make a room feel cold, unwelcoming and unhealthy, and at worst it can indicate structural or weatherproofing issues.
