Deadly Yet Silent - Damp And Condensation In Your Home

30 April, 2014

Condensation

A friend’s trip with their 4-year-old to an asthma clinic at my local hospital reminded me of an important property related fact.

Although not severe he needed various treatments for viral asthma including a brown inhaler, the obligatory blue one and nebuliser also given at the hospital. When trying to establish possible causes, they were asked if they smoke (they don’t), have pets (they don’t), or whether their house is damp or has condensation (perhaps).

During these short and rainy winter days, it is the only option to dry washing within the home and with double glazing and plenty of draught proofing measures taken our home is the bricks and mortar equivalent of a Tupperware box, nothing can get in and more importantly nothing can get out.

According to recent research, over 60% of homes are too humid which can lead to a population explosion in dust mites, a common allergen and cause of asthma-like symptoms.

The Solution?

Always check for defective cavity wall insulation, which could be contributing to the problem, companies such as Cavitech-uk will offer a free consultation.

Always keep a home well ventilated, opening at least one windows front and back to keep a flow of air.

Most double glazed windows can be locked in a ventilating position which is better from a security point of view. Invest in some de-humidifying devices for particularly poorly ventilated areas such as utility rooms, bathrooms, etc. They will suck much of the moisture out the air and collect it in a trap.

Occasionally check behind large furniture where air does not circulate well and you may be surprised to see signs of mould which can be removed with a gentle bleach solution.

Mould like this indicates that you do have a condensation problem. So, improve ventilation if you find it.

There is no doubt that cases of childhood asthma have increased dramatically in recent years, when I was in school in the 1980s, I don’t remember anybody suffering with it and now a blue puffer is a must-have accessory for many teenagers. Many things have changed in our lifestyle in the 20 or 30 years since, but I believe that better home insulation is the root cause of much of the problem.

Just be ready for higher fuel bills after you turn the heating up to make up for the draught! A classic Catch 22 I’m afraid.