Sussex Damp Surveyors

Our condensation survey is meticulously designed to pinpoint the root causes of your condensation issues. We delve into thorough discussions about effective solutions and associated costs to effectively manage the problem. Our comprehensive surveys encompass:

• A comprehensive investigation covering the entirety of your property.
• A detailed report comprising descriptions of the identified issue, practical solutions for control, estimated costs, information on products to eradicate mold and prevent further condensation, and recommendations for trusted contractors to execute necessary works.

With our tailored approach, we aim to provide you with actionable insights and guidance to effectively address your condensation concerns, ensuring a healthier and more comfortable living environment.

Condensation, essentially the opposite of water's boiling point, occurs when water vapor is cooled down to and below 100 degrees Celsius, causing it to return to its liquid state. This phenomenon is observable across a range of temperatures between 0 and 100 degrees Celsius, but it becomes most apparent when there's a significant temperature contrast between a surface and the surrounding atmosphere.

For instance, on a hot day, you might notice water droplets forming on the outside of a cold drink. This visual demonstration illustrates condensation in action. The same principle applies within properties, where condensation may occur on walls. If the surface temperature of a wall cools sufficiently relative to the air temperature, water vapor present in the air can condense upon it, leading to moisture accumulation. Understanding this process is key to managing and mitigating condensation-related issues within your property.

Condensation can manifest anywhere within a property given the right conditions. It's particularly prevalent between September and April, when there's a notable contrast between indoor and outdoor temperatures. Condensation arises when the surface temperature falls below the dew point, which is a temperature derived from the interplay of air temperature and relative humidity. 

Damp and condensation are frequently conflated, yet they represent distinct phenomena. Condensation arises from moisture accumulation within a property, whereas damp results from moisture infiltration from external sources. Rising damp and condensation are often mistaken for one another, especially as they typically affect the lower sections of walls. This occurs because the bottom portion of a wall tends to be cooler, given that heat naturally rises.

According to the NHS website: "Moulds produce allergens (substances that can cause an allergic reaction), irritants and, sometimes, toxic substances. Inhaling or touching mould spores may cause an allergic reaction, such as sneezing, a runny nose, red eyes and skin rash. Moulds can also cause asthma attacks."

Condensation can impact various groups of people, particularly:

• Babies and children,
• Elderly individuals,
• Individuals with pre-existing skin conditions like eczema,
• Those with respiratory issues such as allergies and asthma,
• Individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy.

Understanding these susceptibilities underscores the importance of effectively managing and mitigating condensation within indoor environments, especially in households with vulnerable individuals.

There is a wide array of solutions available to effectively control and eliminate condensation. These solutions range from enhancing ventilation and insulation to making adjustments in lifestyle habits. It's essential to recognize that certain properties are inherently at a higher risk of condensation than others. While lifestyle changes can be beneficial, they may not always suffice to fully resolve condensation issues. In such cases, tailored solutions become imperative. This is precisely where a condensation survey proves invaluable—it helps identify the root cause accurately and elucidates the most effective solutions tailored to your specific situation.