Penetrating damp especially on solid walls is a common complaint at this time of year. The autumn rains and winter frost combined with cold winds often results in damp patches and/or mould on exterior walls.

Penetrating damp is often diagnosed as the problem and a rendering or internal waterproofing plaster is recommended to solve the problem. Whilst this can sometimes be the answer, more often than not it does not address the real problem.

In older properties of solid walled construction where the owners are out during the daytime and heating is turned off the internal temperature drops drastically. The exterior walls become colder than the internal air and when the central heating is turned on it takes a considerable while to heat the air before the walls have a chance to heat up.

The warm air then meets a very cold wall and the moisture in the air forms a damp patch on the wall and encourages black spot mould to grow. The cause therefore could be said to be condensation as a result of the warm/cold cycle combined with a solid wall.

For a different perspective and solution to penetrating damp problems please call us now on 01908 516366 or email us if you prefer using the contact us button opposite.