Last edited 13 Dec 2019

Condensation in buildings

Air will generally include moisture in the form of water vapour.

When air cools, it is less able to 'hold' moisture, that is, the saturation water vapour density falls, and so the relative humidity rises. When the relative humidity reaches 100%, the air will be saturated. This is described as the dew point. If the air continues to cool, moisture will begin to condense.

Typically this happens in buildings when warm, moist air comes into contact with cooler surfaces that are at or below the dew point, such as windows, and water condenses on those surfaces.

Condensation can occur on surfaces, or can be interstitial condensation occurring between the layers of the building envelope, typically as a result of air diffusing from the warm interior of the building to the cool exterior and reaching its dew point within the building fabric. This interstitial condensation, when trapped within the structure by impervious materials is often erroneously referred to as rising damp.

Condensation affects the performance of buildings, causing problems such as:

Mould growth which is a cause of respiratory allergies.
Mildew.
Staining.
Slip hazards.
Damage to equipment.
Corrosion and decay of the building fabric.
Poor performance of insulation (see Insulation specification for more information).

Condensation can be controlled by:

Limiting sources of moisture (including reverse condensation, where moisture evaporates from damp materials). For example, replacing flueless gas or oil heaters.
Increasing air temperatures.
Dehumidification.
Natural or mechanical ventilation. This is particularly important in cold roofs, where unseen problems can build up, putting occupants in danger of structural collapse.
Increasing surface temperatures, such as by the inclusion of insulation or by improving glazing.
Avoiding cold bridges. These are situations where there is a direct connection between the inside and outside through one or more elements that are more thermally conductive than the rest of the building envelope. Thermal bridges are common in older buildings, which may be poorly constructed, poorly insulated, with single skin construction and single glazing. In modern buildings, thermal bridging can occur because of poor design, or poor workmanship. This is common where elements of the building penetrate through its insulated fabric, for example around glazing, or where the structure penetrates the building envelope, such as at balconies.
The introduction of vapour barriers (vapour control layers) which prevent moisture from diffusing through the building fabric to a point where temperatures might be low enough to reach dew point.

Some uses of buildings generate high levels of moisture and so specialist techniques may be necessary to prevent or mitigate the occurrence of condensation.

It is important that any systems introduced to limit condensation are properly installed and maintained to ensure continued optimal operation.

Condensation in buildings is regulated by Approved Document C (Site preparation and resistance to contaminates and moisture) and Approved Document F (Ventilation) and further guidance is available in BS 5250 Code of practice for the control of condensation in buildings.