28 Nov Wet walls: causes, consequences and solutions
Wet walls are a common problem in many homes and buildings, which can affect both the aesthetics and structure of buildings. Understanding the causes, recognizing the consequences and acting quickly with appropriate solutions is essential to prevent this inconvenience from becoming a serious problem. In today’s article, we’ll talk about everything you need to know to control wet walls efficiently. At Humilogic, in today’s article, we’ll talk about everything you need to know to control wet walls efficiently.
Causes of wet walls
Moisture in walls can have multiple sources, and determining the exact cause is the first step to solving the problem. One of the most frequent reasons is water leaking through cracks in the walls, which can occur due to heavy rain, broken pipes or poor insulation on the facade.
Another common cause is capillary moisture, a phenomenon where water rises from the foundations due to the lack of impermeable barriers. This type of moisture usually manifests itself in interior and exterior walls close to the floor, forming spots or efflorescences.
Finally, condensation is a common factor in poorly ventilated or thermally insulated spaces. This occurs when hot air comes into contact with cold surfaces, causing water to build up on the walls. This type of humidity is common in bathrooms, kitchens and basements.
Solutions for wet walls
Effectively addressing wet walls requires identifying the root cause and applying the appropriate solution. For filtration problems, it is essential to repair cracks and reinforce the insulation with waterproofing materials. In cases of capillary moisture, chemical barriers or waterproof membranes can be installed on the foundations to stop water from rising.
If moisture comes from condensation, improving the ventilation of the space is key. Installing extraction systems in bathrooms and kitchens, as well as maintaining cross ventilation, will help reduce the accumulation of water in the air. You may also consider installing dehumidifiers to control indoor humidity levels.
Do wet walls smell?
Yes, damp walls often have a distinctive odor, mainly caused by mold and bacteria that proliferate in high humidity environments. This odor is easily recognizable, being similar to that of enclosed spaces or decaying materials, and may intensify in areas with poor ventilation. In addition to being unpleasant, this smell may indicate major problems such as leaks or condensation that affect air quality and the health of occupants.
Consequences of wet walls
Wet walls not only affect the appearance of your home, but they can also create structural and health problems if left untreated. One of the first visible signs is dark spots and mold formation, which can spread rapidly if not controlled. Mold is not only unsightly, but can also cause respiratory problems and allergies, especially in sensitive people.
At the structural level, moisture can weaken building materials, causing paint to shed, plaster to deform or even cracks in walls. In severe cases, it can compromise the stability of the building.
In addition, damp walls affect the thermal insulation of the home, which increases energy consumption when more heating or air conditioning is needed. This directly impacts your bills and the comfort of your home.
In Humilogic we are specialists in offering effective solutions to eliminate the humidity of your home. We know that humidity not only affects the aesthetics of your home, but also your well-being and the durability of the structure. From moisture through filtration to condensation or capillary problems, we have the expertise and technology to identify the cause and fix it at its root. Contact us!