🌫️ Why Are Wigan Homes Suffering from Loft Condensation?
If you’ve noticed dampness or mould in your loft space, especially during colder months, it may not be a roof leak — it could be condensation caused by poor or missing insulation.
In Wigan, where many homes have been extended or upgraded in stages, it’s common to find gaps in loft insulation, blocked soffit vents, or inadequate ventilation, all of which contribute to a build-up of warm moist air under a cold roof.
❄️ What Causes Loft Condensation?
Condensation happens when warm, moist air from below rises into the loft and meets a cold surface (roof felt, timber, insulation, etc.).
Key causes include:
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❌ Missing or uneven insulation leaving cold spots
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❌ Gaps in insulation coverage around downlights, eaves or hatches
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❌ Inadequate ventilation (e.g. blocked soffit or ridge vents)
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❌ Warm air escaping from bathrooms or kitchens below
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❌ Lack of vapour control layer between ceiling and insulation
The result? Water droplets forming on the underside of the roof, damp timbers, mould patches — and in some cases, timber decay.
🔍 Signs of Loft Condensation in Wigan Homes
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Mould or mildew on the underside of the roof
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Wet insulation or dripping felt
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Rot or softness in rafters and joists
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Visible black mould on the loft hatch or ceiling below
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A musty smell or mould on items stored in the loft
In areas like Orrell, Pemberton and Hindley, we often see properties with old glass wool insulation that has compressed or been disturbed.
✅ How to Prevent Loft Condensation
1. Upgrade the Insulation
Ensure insulation is continuous and to a minimum depth of 270mm, with no major gaps. Avoid blocking airflow at eaves.
2. Improve Ventilation
Introduce or unblock:
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Soffit vents
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Ridge or tile vents
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Gable vents
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Trickle vents in habitable rooms below
3. Control Moisture at Source
Install DMEV fans in bathrooms and kitchens to reduce humidity entering the loft. Consider a Positive Input Ventilation (PIV) system for whole-home control.
4. Inspect Roof Defects
Check for cracked tiles, underlay damage, or poor sealing around chimneys and pipes.
🏡 Common Wigan Property Types at Risk
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1930s semis with retrofitted insulation
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Bungalows and dormers with cold roof spaces
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New builds with trickle vent failures
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Terraced houses where insulation hasn’t been extended into rear additions
👷 Why Choose Weather Wise?
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✅ Professional loft insulation upgrades
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✅ Condensation control specialists
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✅ DMEV and PIV installation included
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✅ Members of the Damp Proofing Association
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✅ Backed by the Federation of Damp
📞 Book a Free Loft Moisture Check in Wigan
https://weatherwiseuk.co.uk/pages/contact
FAQs
Can I fix loft condensation just by insulating?
Not always — you also need to check ventilation and moisture control below.
Does a PIV unit stop loft condensation?
Yes, when paired with proper insulation and ventilation, it can dramatically reduce condensation risk.
What if my insulation is already wet?
It may need to be removed and replaced. Damp insulation loses effectiveness and can promote mould.