Does this wet weather cause dampness in buildings?

30th May 2024 | |

According to the Met Office, spring of 2024 has been exceptionally wet in the UK, with March 2024 the wettest March for England and Wales since 1981. Rainfall totals were more than double the long-term averages for these areas. This pattern of heavy rainfall continued into April, making the three-month cumulative rainfall totals among the highest on record for many catchments in England.

Wet weather can cause dampness in buildings. This happens due to several factors:

  1. Increased Humidity: Wet weather often brings high humidity levels, which can lead to condensation on walls, windows, and other surfaces inside the building. Over time, this can cause damp patches and mould growth.
  2. Rainwater Penetration: Rainwater can penetrate buildings through various means such as leaks in the roof, walls, windows, and doors. Poorly maintained or damaged building exteriors can allow rainwater to seep inside, leading to dampness.
  3. Rising dampness: Prolonged wet weather can cause the water table to rise, leading to moisture seeping through foundations and floors, especially in basements or ground-level rooms.
  4. Poor Drainage: Inadequate drainage around the building can result in water pooling around the foundations. This can increase the risk of water ingress and subsequent dampness inside the building.

To mitigate dampness caused by wet weather, it’s important to ensure proper building maintenance, such as repairing leaks, improving insulation, ensuring adequate ventilation, and maintaining effective drainage systems.

For any advice on dampness, water damage or how to dehumidify your home or workplace, please contact us on 020 7760 7660 or help@dehumidifier-rental.co.uk