If you’ve got moisture building up on your walls, it doesn’t really matter whether it’s damp or condensation, right? Wet is wet and should be dealt with the same way, correct?
Not true. Wetness as a result of damp has a different cause and different solutions than does wetness that comes from condensation. This includes what type of paint you need to put on your walls to prevent future issues.
Identifying Damp vs. Condensation
Damp occurs when your structure lacks protection from moisture coming inside from outdoors. This could be caused by a crack in the wall or a damaged roof tile. In other words: Damp is caused by moisture or water getting into your structure when it shouldn’t be there.
On the other hand, condensation is caused by a lack of ventilation or little air movement. Condensation is common in areas that have poor air circulation, such as bathrooms or kitchens.
If you have an air flow issue, your windows will fog up and you’ll see droplets forming on the walls and ceilings. In short: Condensation is caused when water cannot find its way out of your building.
How to Deal With Damp
One of the most common signs of damp issues is peeling wallpaper and crumbling plaster. This is an indication that wetness is penetrating your walls, usually from an external source. You may be able to smell damp before you ever see it.
The first step is to identify the source of the damp and correct it. So, if your dampness is caused by a crack in your wall, fixing the crack must happen before any repainting is done.
When you’re ready to repaint, you need a damp-proof, or watertight, paint. These types of paint are designed to keep water out of your property, can be applied to areas that are already wet and can protect from fungal growth.
How to Deal With Condensation
If your home’s exterior is watertight and your moisture is coming from indoors, you still need to deal with the cause of the condensation before repainting. Improving the air flow of the space and adjusting the heat differences can go a long way.
Once you’re ready to repaint, look for anti-condensation paints. These will protect against condensation while helping you avoid any sort of mold growth in your space.
Professional Painters in Metro Detroit
If you’re dealing with any sort of moisture inside your home or business, it may be best to call in the professionals for help. At Armor Tough Coatings, we can help you identify the cause of any moisture indoors and work with you to find solutions going forward, including repainting with appropriate protective coatings. Schedule your consultation today!
