What is damp and mould?
Damp is when there is too much water in a building, often causing wet spots on walls or ceilings. It happens due to leaks, poor ventilation, or water coming up from the ground.
Click here to learn how to spot the different types of damp.
Mould grows on damp surfaces, and in most cases is caused by condensation. It is natural to experience condensation, especially when trying to eliminate drafts and save money on heating bills. You might see mould as patches of different colours on walls or other surfaces and if untreated, can be bad for your health. Cleaning mould and repainting the area will not remove the issue. It is important to figure out and fix what is making it grow, which could be one or more factors causing too much moisture.
Condensation occurs when moist air meets a cold surface such as walls, windows, tiles, mirrors, etc. This generally occurs in colder months, especially at night time when temperatures drops and doors and windows are closed.
Cooking with uncovered pots can release steam and moisture into the air
Bathing generates steam which increases humidity levels
Drying clothes indoors without proper ventilation
Boiling the kettle for hot beverages
Breathing releases moisture into the air, especially in enclosed spaces
Indoor plants release moisture through a process called transpiration
What causes condensation?
The average family produces approximately 15 litres (27 pints) of moisture per day.
Sleeping (8 hours x 4 people): 1-2 litres
Cooking: 2-3 litres
Bathing: 0.2 litres
Washing clothes: 0.5-1 litres
Drying clothes: 3-7.5 litres
Dishwashing: 0.4 litres
Did you know?
How can I measure my home’s moisture levels?
A hygrometer will measure the mount of moisture in your home. Ideally, readings should be between 40-60. The appearance of condensation and/or mould may be present with readings of 60+ for more than 2 days.