"This needs addressing and the effects of failing to provide adequate ventilation should be taken much more seriously"
According to the Property Care Association, cases of condensation and wet water streaming down from the roof space, which it describes as a ‘watershock,’ are on the increase at this time of the year.
The Association says the issue has been particularly noticeable in recent years among new homeowners who move into their properties over the Christmas break, and then struggle to manage problems with condensation months later.
Stephen Hodgson, chief executive of the Property Care Association, said: “A new generation of homes are being built to improved standards in terms of airtightness to aid energy efficiency.
“As a result, all the moisture generated from cooking, bathing and laundry is removed through the property’s ventilation system.
“But quite often, new homes are finished to a tight deadline, without time for the water that is part of the construction process to dry out.
“This means the property is already carrying excess moisture, and when people move in, that water load increases.
“The ventilation system, already under considerable strain, has to process the excess moisture tied-up in the building’s fabric but then, with few windows open in winter and baths, showers and tumble dryers all running, the home becomes even more loaded and this is when we see ‘watershock.’
“This involves water flowing down walls and windows, as the ventilation system struggles to operate effectively.
“Although it’s distressing and can look dramatic, our message is not to panic. With some simple changes and after a few months of warmth in the summer, the problem will generally resolve itself.”
Property Care Association has issued tips to manage the situation and help a new build home dry out more quickly, including:
- Drying clothes outside wherever possible.
- Preventing excess moisture from bathrooms and kitchens escaping into other areas of the property.
- Ensuring the extractor fan is on when showering.
- Opening windows and doors to allow excess moisture to escape.
- Cooking with lids on saucepans.
- Retaining a lower ambient temperature for longer, rather than peaks of higher temperatures.
Stephen Hodgson added: “Usually the house rights itself and the ventilation system goes back to full capacity.
“However, if the situation is not improving, it might need further investigation and a member of the PCA’s Residential Ventilation Group will be able to offer advice and signpost homeowners to solutions to address the issue.
“A starting point for investigation will be the efficiency of the ventilation systems in place.
“The PCA conducted a poll during a recent webinar on ventilation and over 72% of the delegates believed less than 30% of installations in new builds complied with Building Regulations.
“Approved Document F, which covers ventilation in the home, does not get the attention it deserves and is not enforced to the same extent as other areas of the Building Regulations.
“This needs addressing and the effects of failing to provide adequate ventilation should be taken much more seriously, as the physical and mental impact homeowners face living in a damp, humid home are significant.”
