• Streaming windows
• Black mould on walls, fabrics or furnishings
• Musty smells

Condensation accounts for approximately 70% of reported damp problems in domestic dwellings.

Olympic Construction has been curing condensation problems for over 25 years. We have several cost-effective solutions for homeowners and landlords – ensuring the fabric of your properties is protected, and the living environment for its occupants is healthy.

Condensation dampness results from too much moisture in the air, generated by bathing, showering, drying clothes, and even breathing. Most homes will experience condensation dampness, with steaming windows, damp surfaces and musty smells being tell-tale signs.

Occupant lifestyle also contributes to condensation – would you believe just one occupant within a property produces two litres of moisture daily by just breathing?

More importantly, condensation can also lead to mould growing on walls and sometimes on our clothes when stored in cupboards. The Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) identifies damp and mould as one of the 24 hazards which could cause ‘risk or harm to health and safety of an actual or potential occupier’.

As we improve housing conditions with double glazing and insulation, the air tightness of a property is increased, allowing little room for a property to be naturally ventilated and, as a result, condensation dampness is becoming a growing problem.

In short, condensation dampness is a common consequence of modern living and more energy-efficient homes.

When condensation dampness starts to form, particularly mould growth, it is unpleasant, damaging, and costly to your property – causing premature redecoration or replacement. Many people also associate mould growth with health problems.

• Avoid costly redecoration costs by creating an environment where condensation dampness cannot exist.
• Keep a healthy home with improved indoor air quality, removing external pollutants such as traffic fumes and radon gas.
• Create a low-allergen home by reducing dust mites and pollen, helping ease asthma symptoms and other respiratory problems.

The best way to tackle dampness due to condensation is to have adequate ventilation in your property.  We recommend you also take the following simple steps:

• Dry your clothes outside wherever possible and when drying inside is the only option, try and isolate drying to well-ventilated small rooms.
• Avoid drying clothes on radiators, as this significantly contributes to condensation.
• When producing steam in a bathroom or kitchen, keep the door shut tight to prevent the moisture from spreading to the rest of the house.
• Open a window in your bathroom and kitchen whilst cooking or bathing to allow the steam to vacate your property.
• Cover pans when cooking.
• Do not block air vents, and make sure your furniture and cupboards are not up tight against walls – mainly external walls.
• If you use a tumble drier, ensure it’s vented correctly, preferably outside.
• Keeping your heating at a low level for an extended period will gently warm the fabric of the building, reducing the cold surfaces on which warm wet air will condense.