Condensation, damp or a leak? How to tell the difference
Mould always needs moisture. Knowing where it comes from is the first step to getting rid of it for good.
Most mould in UK homes is caused by one of four things: condensation, penetrating damp, rising damp or a leak. Each needs a different fix.
Condensation
Warm, moist air from cooking, showers and drying clothes meets cold surfaces such as windows and external walls. Look for water on windows in the morning and mould in corners, behind furniture and around window frames.
Penetrating damp
Water getting in from outside through defective walls, roofs, gutters or window seals. Usually shows as patches that get worse after rain.
Rising damp
Ground moisture rising through walls where the damp-proof course has failed. Typically a tide mark up to about a metre from the floor.
Leaks
Plumbing leaks cause localised patches that don't follow the weather.
Not sure?
A moisture survey with thermal imaging will pinpoint the cause so you only pay for the fix you need.
