how do you stop damp forming on walls of loft room?

Question

the damp black patches are on the gable end wall of the loft bedroom starting up by the ceeling and making its way down to the floor what would be the best way to stop this problem.

Answer 1

roof leak - causing mold

Answer 2

first inspect for leaks on the outside that is causing the dampness. Fix that if you find one. If not, then your problem is moisture from condensation from the moist air. If that is the case, put a good vent in any nearby bathrooms and insulate the wall and ceiling to stop the cooling of the air that causes the condensation.

This is important to fix because the black stuff is dangerous mold.

Answer 3

Hi K H

Sounds like you have possible rainwater ingress problem from the ridge / gable area, you could have missing or loose tiles or if not then the gable may need re-pointing, check just under the overhang of the tiles or slates & to joints between bricks to see if motar has crumbled away or is pourous ( also the bricks them selves could be pourous) old red rubber bricks are notorious for loosing their face & become spongelike.
all this area should be checked first for any obvious signs, ( I assume there are no leaking water pipes anywhere internal to this area) I say rainwater because it sounds like rain water has soaked through & ran downwards & through the wall from top to bottom, whereas condensation normally starts with small patches in corners or just under window cills etc where little droplets may form & then soak in from the internal wall surface
if you in London area I could come have a look for you

Answer 4

1) Check for a leak in the roof
2) Ensure you have air circultaion in the loft, otherwise you could be
prone to condensation (ie moisture formed when hot and cold air
collide and the methodology of condensing clothes dryers)
3) Ensure your downspouts and drainage along the roof isnt blocked
overfilling and spilling into crevices.
4) Assuming #1 is the answer, cut open wall remove
mouldy damp bits, repair roof, patch.

Answer 5

I would be reluctant to allow anyone to sleep in that loft bedroom. I believe the black mold could make someone sick.
I think I would try a solution of bleach, about `1/4 cup of bleach to a quart of water and spray on the mold. Let it set for 15 minutes or so and then wipe away.
The place needs to be ventilated!

Answer 6

Hi builder here, all dampness is water in your case either liquid or condensation, although you have mold ( most molds are not dangerous ) from your description on only one wall and running in a line from top to bottom it suggests that you have a leak, If I sent any of my lads to this we would initially be looking for a leak as condensation usually starts in could spots IE. corners. Once repaired wash the area with a little bleach in water ( don't buy a mold killer as they are all bleach based, the good ones any way ) If the wall is plastered or p/boarded,stain block the area ( B&Q or any DIY shop sell ) . For mold growth to grow they need pure water for their growth and condensed water from rain or condensation is pure. Unlike rising or penetrating damp which can be contaminated and so you have many types of mold growth, yours should not be dangerous to health, so dont be alarmed. good luck

Answer 7

I am with everyone else on the leak in the roof thing.

But if you have that fixed and it is still a problem, try a dehumidifier.

And the black stuff .. mold ... you got a runny nose...allergies...thats prolly why.

Answer 8

Check for leaks. You'll have to examine under the ridge tiles first. Do it in the rain if you can.

If no leaks the you'll have to see about improving the air flow/ventillation in that area.

Answer 9

the winds could have lifted the roof flashing or it could be a roof leak but meantime ventilate well

Answer 10

it sounds like it may be a leaky roof you will have to get it checked out