A to Z of services
Damp and Condensation: Outline
Penetrating damp occurs when a building is damaged and allows water in from outside. The usual signs are isolated wet patches with water stains/marks on outside walls or ceilings after rain.
Rising damp occurs, as the name suggests, from moisture rising up through the wall from the ground. This will affect the walls on the ground floor just above the skirting and the plaster will normally look like puff pastry and is not wet to the touch.
Condensation occurs when warm water vapour in the air cools when in contact with a cold surface and changes into the liquid water state. It usually leaves a musty smell and mould growth.
