If you're seeing water stains, peeling paint, or black spots on your internal walls, it’s tempting to blame it all on condensation – especially in winter. But in Flintshire homes, the real issue may be penetrating damp, and getting the diagnosis wrong means your treatment may fail.
At Weather Wise Solutions Limited, we’re often called out to inspect properties with what’s believed to be “condensation,” only to find that water is entering through cracks, gaps, or failed render from outside. Here’s how to tell the difference and what to do about it.
What Is Penetrating Damp?
Penetrating damp (also called lateral damp) occurs when water makes its way through the fabric of the building – usually through the external walls. Common causes include:
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Cracked or damaged render
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Failed pointing or brickwork
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Blocked or leaking gutters
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Faulty or missing wall coatings
You’ll usually see isolated, localised damp patches that don’t rise in a consistent line from the floor. These patches can appear even halfway up a wall and worsen after rain.
How Condensation Differs
Condensation occurs when moist air meets a cold surface – usually due to poor ventilation. You’ll typically see:
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Mould in the corners of rooms or behind furniture
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Water droplets on windows and windowsills
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A musty smell or general damp feeling
This is often treated successfully with improved airflow, such as trickle vents or PIV systems.
How to Tell the Difference
We always recommend a structured damp diagnosis using both visual assessment and moisture testing. At Weather Wise, we use products and testing methods supported by PAM Ties and other trusted industry suppliers to give accurate recommendations. In some cases, thermal imaging or moisture profiles can help confirm the route of water ingress.
We do not offer formal reported surveys, but we work closely with independent surveyors across Flintshire and North Wales who can provide one where needed.
Solving the Problem the Right Way
Once we know what we’re dealing with:
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Penetrating damp may require render removal, brickwork repairs, and re-application of breathable coatings such as those available from PAM Ties or Wycamol.
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Condensation problems may need mechanical extract fans, trickle vents, or a whole-house PIV unit – all fully compliant with Part F of the Building Regulations.
In either case, we will ensure our solution follows guidance from the Damp Proofing Association and supports your long-term property health.
Concerned About Damp in Your Flintshire Home?
Let’s get to the bottom of it. We offer free quotations with expert guidance to help you solve damp once and for all.