Flat Roof Condensation Problems

Flat and low slope roof designs to avoid moisture condensation problems flat roofs call up a whole new breed of building moisture problems how to avoid moisture traps under flat roofs avoid mold rot caused by moisture trapped under un vented flat roofs questions answers about the cause cure prevention of moisture problems in flat roofs and similarly hard to ventilate structures.

Flat roof condensation problems.

But left for too long it can lead to mould and more expensive damage. But with proper design and maintenance principles you don t have to sweat roof condensation issues. Although condensation in roofs may not seem like a serious problem it actually is. Condensation is never good news for a flat roof.

It can also reduce thermal insulation performance which can be a particular problem during winter. This problem may become more common as existing buildings are altered to become eco friendly. However doing so increases the risk of condensation forming on the elements not surrounded by insulation such as cold roof decks. Condensation will be visible on windows but not usually on walls until the problem is bad or has caused the growth of black mould.

If your roof deck or insulation is developing water droplets chances are your forehead is too. Condensation is a particular problem in roofs above rooms which generate a lot of moisture such as kitchens and bathrooms. Keeping your flat roof condensation free is vital for longevity. Find out how to get rid of condensation including cheap diy tips and things you can do for free.

A flat roof should be designed to minimise condensation and a condensation risk analysis should be undertaken taking into account positioning of insulating materials vapour control layers ventilation thermal insulation. Despite the many benefits of using the old roofing styles which involve the incorporation of selectively porous and completely permeable membranes they are the major causes of condensation in roofs. That excess moisture ends up as drops of condensation on the roof. Condensation is the most easily fixed type of damp problem.

Essentially condensation occurs at night when the temperature inside a building is warmer than outside. Flat roofs are known as being problematic with many suffering leaks. There are two forms of flat roof construction which can reduce the risk of condensation forming. Modern living insulation condensation and mould in times gone by houses would have had single glazing air vents built into the brickwork and open fireplaces that would have literally drawn any stale air outside.

The cold deck solution. Warm wet air rises and meets the cold roof and cools. As it cools it can t hold as much moisture. It is the leading cause of the deterioration of trusses.

However in my own experience the problems with leaking flat roofs are usually as a result of either poor workmanship installing the roof membrane poor maintenance by the building owner or as a result of age.