Condensation is a common problem in many homes.
Not only does dampness leave unflattering stains on ceilings and walls, it also encourages the growth of mould.
As well as looking unattractive, these fungi can cause respiratory inflammation and allergies.
That’s why it’s essential to treat your walls with a quality damp-proofing paint. But how do you find a reliable product that can repair rather than just cover up the problem?
How does anti-humidity paint work?
In recent years, damp-proofing paint has become increasingly popular with homeowners and tenants.
The paint insulates the wall slightly by improving the surface temperature.
It may also contain a microbicide and fungicide to prevent mould growth.
Many people use this type of paint to cover the walls of basements, attics, garages, bathrooms and entrances to houses.
This type of paint can be used in areas where minor condensation forms on the walls.
Why apply anti-humidity paint?
For a number of reasons, dampness problems can occur in your home.
Over time, this can cause damage to the walls of your home and, worse still, health problems.
Causes of condensation
Condensation is caused by the high moisture content of the air condensing on cold surfaces. High humidity in the air can be caused by many things, such as taking a bath, drying clothes or even just making a cup of tea!
However, moisture build-up can occur in any type of property, whether it’s a flat or a house, new or old.
The amount of moisture in the air is called ‘relative humidity’, which can cause problems when the air in your property cools. The moisture then starts to condense and settle on cold surfaces.
Condensation problems are more common than ever as living standards have changed and improved, making properties more airtight. Insulation, double glazing and draught proofing mean that properties suffer from poor air ventilation and trapped moisture.
The main reason condensation needs to be controlled is that, without regular ventilation, it can create an unhealthy living environment where black mould can grow.
Condensation can be extremely distressing as it can affect your decor, damage surfaces and furniture, and cause a bad smell throughout your home.
The danger of black mould
The development of black mould is something everyone should try to avoid.
This general term is the generic name used to describe Stachybotrys Chartarum, a species of mould. This form of mould can spread easily because it germinates in properties that have a problem with relative humidity.
Moulds only grow on condensed water and do not grow directly on other forms of moisture such as rising damp or penetrating damp.
However, a wall can be affected by all forms of moisture: condensation is present on the surface due to moisture in the air condensing on the cold area of the wall.
Black mould is instantly recognisable and can spread through materials such as paint, wallpaper and plaster, causing damage to the walls of a house. It can also seriously affect clothing and furnishings.
Black mould growth can also leave a persistent damp smell and can potentially aggravate existing respiratory conditions in children and the elderly.
It tends to grow in dark places. Suddenly suffering from allergies or asthma? Remember to check the condition of the walls behind your furniture or in isolated corners.
Which anti-humidity paint should I use?
Due to the high levels of humidity and condensation to which kitchens and bathrooms are subjected, they are prone to paint cracking, peeling and mould.
To avoid these problems, we recommend painting with a satin or semi-gloss paint. These materials have a higher gloss value, which means they offer a harder, moisture-resistant finish.
In addition to the benefits of moisture resistance, satin and semi-gloss finishes are also washable and easy to clean.
Is it really effective?
Measuring the effectiveness of an anti-mould paint depends partly on your expectations.
This type of paint is effective in many cases in combating mould.
However, biocides degrade over time and do not remain effective for ever. That’s why you generally need to reapply a coat of damp-proofing paint every 5 years or so.
In short, you can expect anti-mould paints to work, but they’re not a magic remedy – ventilation and the condition of your home are the main damp-proofing factors.
If your walls are damp, as in the case of rising damp, applying damp-proofing paint won’t make any difference. You’ll either have to improve your home’s drainage system or treat damp walls with a moisture-absorbing gel injected into the walls.
Lastly, you should know that anti-humidity paint can be applied perfectly with airless equipment BUT the presence of fungicides and biocides in these paints may require you to think carefully before buying.
To check that your equipment is safe, don’t hesitate to contact us with details of your airless equipment and the product used.
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Questions or queries?
For any further questions or if you would like to get your hands on one of these products seen in this article, you can contact us on +49 (0) 30 220 15436, fill out our contact form or email us. If you wish to purchase one of the products mentioned above, you can check them out in our online store. You can also visit us at our service base during office hours.
