Condensation Control
Condensation Control in Homes and Buildings
Condensation is, to some degree, found in all properties and buildings inhabited by people. This is completely normal: we all breathe out water vapour, create it when cooking, bathing and doing the laundry. This moisture, when combined with the temperature of the air and the surface temperature of the windows, will result in condensation. But how effectively it is processed is key to the health of your family and home. Find out more about condensation solutions.
On average, a family of four will produce around 50 litres of moisture per week. This has to go somewhere! Before the days of double and triple-glazing, cavity wall insulation, loft insulation and general draught proofing, it could escape naturally through those draughty outlets. Damp air out, fresh air in. But now that we do all we can to keep heat in, which is great for our energy usage and bills, we are retaining that moisture, which can lead to problems with condensation.
Not only is condensation unsightly and a reminder of cold and damp, over time it can lead to bigger problems: aside from health issues, the moisture will be absorbed by fabrics, plaster and woodwork, leading to that telltale damp smell, black mould around windows and mould on walls and skirting boards. Once the walls and timbers start to absorb moisture, you can really have an issue on your hands. It can lead to problems with dry and wet rot, as well as the need for woodworm treatment.
Condensation Control Actions
So how to counteract condensation? At London Damp Specialists, we recommend various methods of eradication. This includes sealing off the affected area and running a dehumidifier, although this is only effective in one area at a time. A source of fresh, circulating air is the ideal solution to combat condensation but bear in mind that the highest risk areas are kitchens, bathrooms, laundry areas, ensuites and utility rooms; you may find it too cold to have extractor fans whirring and to keep windows open, especially in the cold, damp winter months.
An alternative solution is to install a condensation ventilation system. These are highly effective at controlling the problem. They come in a variety of models and sizes for your property and levels of moisture in the air and work by removing the vapour-filled air and replacing it with modified air. They are cheap, highly effective and easy to run out of sight. At LDS we prefer the Nuaire positive input ventilation systems: they are the market-leader in home condensation control and bring fast, proven results.
If you are concerned about condensation or damp in your home or property, call LDS today on 0800 0148 023 for advice or to arrange a home visit at a time to suit you. We can advise you on all manner of condensation treatment, including the Nuaire system. Alternatively, book a survey online and one of our surveyors will be in touch with you to discuss your problems within 24 hours.
Damp Survey Costs
Transparent pricing with no hidden fees for our independent, unbiased surveys.
Level 1
What’s included:
- Inspection of walls
- Inspection of floors
- Inspection of ceilings
- Leak inspection of drains and plumbing
- Damp information and prevention guide
Level 2
What’s included:
- Everything in Level 1
- Dry rot inspection
- Wet rot inspection
- Woodworm inspection
- Damp information and prevention guide
Level 3 (Most Popular)
What’s included:
- Thermal Imaging
- Air humidity testing
- HD boroscope camera
- Brickwork pointing inspection
- DPC inspection
- Ventilation flow test on extractor fans
- 4K drone imagery roof, chimney stack
and guttering inspection - Structural condition inspection
- Inspection of walls
- Inspection of floors
- Inspection of ceilings
- Leak inspection of drains and plumbing
- Dry rot inspection
- Wet rot inspection
- Woodworm inspection
- Damp information and prevention guide
Survey Add Ons
Add On 1
Laboratory analysis Of plaster identifies hygroscopic salts such as chlorides and nitrates. which indicate whether damp is caused by rising groundwater or by plumbing leaks, This testing removes guesswork, allowing the exact source of moisture to be identified so the correct treatment is applied rather than carrying out unnecessary damp-proofing work.
Add On 2
qPCR DNA mould testing detects microscopic mould spores that are invisible during a normal inspection and van remain hidden behind walls, floors. or inside building rkaterials. It identifies the exact mould species present and the contamination level, allowing hidden mould problems to be confirrned and properly treated before they affect the property or occupants’ health.
Qualifications: All our surveyors are PCA and CSRT qualified for remedial treatments and also CSSW qualified for structural waterproofing.
Next day report: You will receive the report within 24 hours of the inspection taking place.
The survey fee will be deducted from the cost of any recommended repairs.
These are the tools we use
Damp Meter
A damp meter is a diagnostic tool used to detect and measure moisture levels within building materials such as plaster, brick, timber, and concrete.
Borescope camera
borescope camera is a small inspection camera attached to a flexible semi-rigid cable that allows you to see inside areas that are otherwise inaccessible.
Drone Inspection
A drone is a remotely operated aerial device equipped with a camera that allows visual inspection from above without the need for scaffolding or ladder.
Air Humidity Sensor
Air humidity sensor measures the amount of moisture present in the air, expressed as relative humidity (RH) in percentage. It helps determine whether indoor conditions are contributing to condensation, mould growth, or damp-related issues.
Thermal Imaging Camera
A thermal imaging camera detects temperature differences on surfaces by using infrared technology to produce a heat map image. In damp investigations, it helps identify cold spots, moisture intrusion, insulation defects, thermal bridging and leaks.
Air Flow Ventilation Detector
An air flow ventilation detector measures the movement and volume of air passing through vents, extractor fans, and air bricks. It confirms whether ventilation systems are working properly and achieving adequate air changes within a room. Poor airflow leads to trapped moisture, high humidity, condensation on cold surfaces, and ultimately mould growth.
Mould Lab Swab Testing
A mould swab test is carried out to confirm the presence of hidden mould growth and identify the specific species involved. Surface mould is not always visible, especially behind furniture, inside cavities, or within ventilation systems. Laboratory analysis of a swab sample determines whether active mould spores are present and what type they are, which helps assess potential health risks and decide the correct remediation approach rather than relying on visual assumption alone.
Lab Analysis of Plaster
Laboratory analysis of plaster is used to identify the type of salts present within the material, typically chlorides and nitrates. The presence and concentration of these salts help determine whether the moisture source is consistent with rising damp, ground contamination, or another forms [sic] of water ingress. such as mains water leak, This removes guesswork and prevents misdiagnosis, ensuring the correct remedial treatment is specified rather than applying unnecessary or ineffective solutions.
Contact Us
If you have some questions, please complete this form:
Book and Pay for a survey
If you are ready to book a survey and pay, please complete this form:
Contact Us
If you have some questions, please complete this form:
Book and Pay for a survey
If you are ready to book a survey and pay, please complete this form:
Contact Us
If you have some questions, please complete this form:
Book and Pay for a survey
If you are ready to book a survey and pay, please complete this form: