What Is Damp?
A damp issue in a house is an indication that water has infiltrated the walls, floors or ceilings. This can be caused by various factors such as fractured pipes, excess condensation, loose or missing roof tiles and moisture rising from the earth causing some bricks to become porous. There are two types of damp: mild and severe. The first type is ‘rising damp,’ which spreads vertically up walls from the ground while the second type is ‘penetrating damp,’ which spreads horizontally or downwards. Unfortunately, any form of damp will not disappear on its own; instead, it will worsen over time and become more expensive to fix. Additionally, excessive condensation can cause internal dampness within a building.
Damp homes can lead to health issues especially for those allergic to mould spores who may experience skin irritations, eye irritations and chest problems like asthma. As autumn approaches and winter looms ahead it’s important to assess your home for potential issues with moisture before they get worse.
If you’re looking to tackle this problem head-on then there are certain symptoms you should look out for when checking for signs of moisture damage in your home.
Indicators Of Damp In A Property
To identify rising damp, it is important to pay attention to certain critical signs. The most noticeable sign is the distinctive moist odour that emanates from a room with high moisture levels. This musty smell can be amplified when doors are closed, or cupboards are opened. Indicators on walls and ceilings, such as mouldy mildew wet patches or white salt-like deposits may also suggest dampness. Darkening of plaster or flaking wallpaper could also be tell-tale signs of wetness. Feeling different regions on walls, floors, and ceilings carefully and systematically can help detect damp surfaces which feel strangely cool and humid compared to dry surfaces. It’s essential to inspect both interior and exterior walls, windows, and roofs regularly for any symptoms of moisture problems since they can occur on either side of a wall.
Hiring a professional surveyor who will extensively inspect the property for any symptoms of moisture inside out is an easy way to check for dampness in your home. The report will give you tips on how best to solve it if there’s any type of damp present in your home.
For more information about our services at Sussex Damp Treatments please contact us today!
What Are The Symptoms Of Rising Damp?
Rising damp can be a costly and difficult problem to deal with. If you suspect that your property is affected by rising damp, there are several tell-tale signs to look out for. These include the presence of damp patches that start at the bottom of walls and work their way up, decaying skirting boards or rotting plaster, lifting floor coverings such as tiles, vinyl or carpets, peeling paint or wallpaper due to an ineffective damp proof course, white powdery salt-like substances appearing on walls and yellow or brown tidal traces or staining on walls. It’s important to act quickly if you notice any of these signs; contact Sussex Damp Treatments’ team of specialists who can provide expert assistance in dealing with all types of damp-related issues affecting your property.
Signs Of Penetrating Damp
Penetrating damp is a common problem that can occur due to structural issues such as faulty guttering, damaged downpipes, roofs or wall fractures. Porous old bricks can also allow water to penetrate the walls. Signs of penetrating damp include damaged wallpaper and plaster from the middle section upwards of the wall, localised moist patches on the walls and ceiling at varying heights, rain penetration due to damage in external walls, pebbledash or renders and guttering. Darker patches may develop on outside walls or dark swaths of tidal lines climbing up the walls in case of rising moisture similar to inside walls. Damp patches on brickwork and vegetation growing on external walls are also visible signs. Localised external stains near the source of moisture incursion indicate penetrating damp as an issue.
Symptoms Of Condensation
Condensation is the most common form of moisture, and if left unattended, it can lead to unsightly black mould growth. It occurs when the temperature inside a property drops below that of moist air, causing it to accumulate on interior surfaces. The consequences of condensation are not only aesthetic; they can also exacerbate or trigger health problems such as asthma. To prevent these issues from arising, be vigilant for signs of condensation in your home: excess moisture on cold surfaces like windows, tiles or chilly walls; increased humidity levels; musty odours lingering in the air; streaming walls and windows; damp spots developing behind furniture and in corners; wallpaper peeling off walls; blackened window frames indicating mould growth has begun. Soft furnishings and fabrics may also become breeding grounds for mildew and mould if left unchecked.
Where Should You cheque For Damp?
When it comes to identifying damp in a property, starting with the basement is a wise choice. Wetness beneath the floors can lead to decay and discolouration or moist areas on walls and ceilings. The bathroom is particularly susceptible due to its frequent use of water, which can result in condensation and mould growth. It’s important to keep an eye on the airing cupboard and water heater within this space as well. Signs of damp may include musty odours or visible discolouration, indicating that action needs to be taken promptly before any further damage occurs.
We Are Here To Help You Deal With Damp
If you suspect dampness in your home, it is crucial to seek professional treatment as soon as possible. A surveyor will examine the extent of the problem and identify any difficult-to-identify factors that may be causing the issue, such as faulty insulation. At Sussex Damp Treatments, we are experts at detecting and resolving damp issues and offer a variety of effective treatment options depending on what is generating the damp. Do not attempt to solve the problem yourself; instead, contact a professional right away to inspect and assess the damage before providing remedies to remedy the situation.
Our team of trained specialists at Sussex Damp Treatments will ensure that all issues are resolved promptly by identifying what’s causing wetness and fixing it immediately. We guarantee exceptional service that prioritises your property’s security while protecting your family’s health from mould infestation. Contact us for reliable advice on which cost-effective treatment option will work best for you via phone or email – 01273 257 212 or info@sussexdamp.co.uk