How to combat and control condensation in your roof space

Condensation in your roof space can be a frustrating situation for a homeowner but there are ways to combat it and prevent it from returning.

If you ever find condensation in your roof space, you should act quickly to avoid any issues. If you’d like to find out the issues it can cause and how to combat condensation in your roof space, continue reading our guide.

How is condensation caused?

Condensation is caused when water vapour comes into contact with cold surfaces. It then condenses into water droplets and dampness.

The air contains a varying amount of water vapour and warm air can hold more water vapour than cold air. So, when the warm air combines with a colder surface, it cools down and cannot retain the same amount of water vapour.

This then releases excess water vapour and forms condensation.

Water vapour can be formed as the materials that were used during your home’s construction dry out. However, it isn’t usually a building fault.

Condensation can occur in a new home because the building materials – mortar and plaster, for example – contain a lot of moisture. Water vapour is then formed because the materials are drying out while the home is being lived in and heated.

Problems that condensation in your roof space can cause?

Condensation in the roof space of your home can cause several issues. They include:

• Mould and mildew – Condensation in the roof space can cause mould and mildew to grow. This can compromise the quality of air within your home and cause health issues.
• Roof damage – Condensation can lead to varying levels of damage to your roof’s structure, which will lead to leaks. This will then create many more issues within your property.
• Dry or wet rot – Dry or wet rot can be created because of excessive condensation in the roof space.
• Damp – Of course, a build-up of condensation can dampness in the roof space.

How to stop condensation in your roof space?

Water vapour passes through most building materials and enters the roof space through plasterboard ceilings. You’re unlikely to fully prevent condensation but your aim should be to reduce it to a level where it doesn’t cause issues within the property.

Here’s how you can prevent moisture build-up in your property:

When drying laundry, try to avoid using airers or radiators. If you must dry clothes indoors, open a window in the door of the room they’re in so moisture can escape outside.
When cooking with pans, use lids to reduce the amount of steam and use the extractor fan, if you have one.
When using a vented tumble dryer, ensure it is properly vented to an open window or outside wall.

Another big thing you can do to help is ensure proper ventilation in your roof space.

Ventilating the roof

It’s important to ventilate the roof to prevent the build-up of condensation in the roof space. Once water vapour has entered the roof space, the most practical way of eliminating it is via ventilation.

Building Regulations require ventilation to be provided in roof spaces. For pitched roofs, a ventilation slot is built along two opposite eaves so air can flow. These mustn’t be blocked.

Some roofs do not require ventilation because the underlay is water vapour permeable. This roof type allows water vapour to pass through the underlay to the exterior of the structure instead of forming condensation on the surface within the roof space.

Finally, as the roof space isn’t always intended to be used as a storage solution, try not to put too much up there because it could restrict airflow.

Need more advice?

Do you think you need some more advice about preventing condensation in different areas of your house? If so, don’t hesitate to contact us at ABC+ Warranty.

Our team of housing experts would be happy to take your call and discuss your situation. Alternatively, you can browse our range of structural building warranties to see if any apply to you and if they could help.