What causes condensation and why is it an issue?
If you manage a new-build home, you might have spotted some condensation on your roof. This might seem harmless, but it can actually be a big problem. In this blog, we’ll be answering the question, ‘What causes condensation and why is it an issue?’.
What causes condensation?
Condensation is the process where water vapour becomes liquid and is caused by a cold surface coming into contact with warm air. Condensation can occur on any cold surface, including roofs.
Put simply, condensation occurs because warm air is able to hold more moisture than cold air. A cold roof space (at 10°C) is able to hold 8 grams of water per cubic metre, whereas a warm living space (at 20°C) can hold up to 20 grams of water. So, when the warm air from inside a property rises up to a poorly ventilated roof with nowhere to escape, 12 grams of water per cubic metre of air is left. When the air in the roof is fully saturated with water vapour, water droplets will form as condensation; usually underneath the roof underlay.
The problem with roof condensation
Now that we’ve answered the question, ‘What causes condensation?’, let’s take a look at why it could be an issue for property owners.
New-build homes are more likely to experience condensation in their roofs, as they are generally warmer than older buildings to their improved insulation. If you live in a new build home and your roof is properly constructed, you might experience brief bouts of condensation during particularly cold weather, especially if you have your heating turned up.
This condensation will usually disappear within a few days without causing too much damage, but if the condensation in your home builds up, it can soak through from the underlay of your roof to other roof elements, such as the insulation and rafters. This can cause several problems, including staining and even structural damage.
How to prevent condensation
There are two ways you can prevent condensation in your home: changing your living habits and improving the ventilation in your roof.
To prevent water vapour from reaching your roof, you can either get into the habit of opening your windows or hire an expert to install a window ventilation system.
The most effective way to prevent the build-up of condensation in your home is to ensure that you have a roof installed that is designed with the correct ventilation methods to prevent moisture from accumulating.
Contact the experts
Keep your home in good condition by getting in touch with our property maintenance team at Groom.
