Condensation in the loft or the roof space has become more prevalent in recent years as homeowners and landlords take action to reduce energy bills and retain heat loss by adding insulation and closing off vital ventilation.
What is Condensation?
When hot, humid air becomes trapped within a building, condensation can form once moist air comes into contact with a cold surface such as a wall or window.
The most notable signs of condensation in a loft or roof space can be droplets of water on the roof felt or the wooden beams. If there is a continuous problem with condensation, this can eventually lead to mould growth or wood rot problems in structural timbers.
What Can Cause Condensation in the Loft?
There are several reasons why condensation can appear in the loft. It’s essential to address what is causing condensation as this will need to be fixed as part of resolving the issue.
1. Excessive moisture/ inadequate ventilation
The leading cause of condensation is the combination of excessive moisture and insufficient ventilation. Address where the moisture in the house is coming from, especially if you are experiencing high levels of condensation in your loft, and ensure your property is equipped to ventilate properly. Moisture passes around the fitting loft hatch and moves slowly through plasterboard ceilings.
2. Changes to loft insulation
Condensation in the loft can start to manifest if new or upgraded insulation is installed. This can result in the roof becoming colder and making condensation problems worse. Ensure any insulation that is fitted is correctly fitted and does not block the natural eaves ventilation.
3. Restricting Air Flow
Did you know, lofts were not necessarily built to be additional storage areas. The roof space should allow good unrestricted airflow to prevent condensation from building up by making sure any boxes or possessions do not restrict airflow and any air vents.
4. Hot and cold water tanks in the loft
In some properties, if the hot water tank is in the roof, condensation can come from water vapour being released into the roof space. Causing the steam to condense on the underside of the loft. Ensure any hot water tank lids are securely shut and steam is ventilated out properly. Cold water tanks should have a cover, to prevent contamination and water evaporation.
If you would like to find out more about the causes of condensation in your property and how to resolve condensation issues, you can download our FREE guide to Causes of Condensation.
What Helps to Prevent Condensation in Loft or Roof Spaces?
When tackling any form of condensation, it is vital to address the issues that have caused condensation before restoring any damage. Any excess moisture that is created in your property must go somewhere and if not properly ventilated will rise into the loft.
Control the amount of excess moisture you are generating by ventilating when you are cooking and washing. Open windows and turn on any extractor fans when cooking or washing, unblock air vents to promote natural ventilation and avoid drying clothes inside.
If you require information to tackle condensation in the loft or roof space, get in touch with our team today. Our teams are available to advise on any condensation enquiries you may have and offer you condensation solutions. To get in touch, call us on 0800 0121 437 or complete our online form and a member of our team will get back to you.
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