Moisture on the outside of a house: Causes, signs and expert treatments

Moisture on the outside of a house is a common problem that can have a variety of complex origins. One of the most common signs is theappearance of saltpetre, a whitish deposit often caused by recurrent and serious dampness problems, such as capillary rise from the ground. It's essential to intervene as soon as saltpetre appears on façades to preserve your property and prevent rapid deterioration. Moisture can also be caused by poorly insulated walls, inadequate ventilation that prevents water vapour from escaping from inside, or undetected plumbing problems. In addition, climatic conditions such as driving rain and high ambient humidity play a significant role in the appearance and aggravation of damp on exterior facades.

The signs of damp on the outside of the house can be varied and should raise a red flag. A spot of damp on an exterior wall is a clear indicator of a problem. Moisture can also lead to theappearance of mould, the destruction of plaster which cracks or crumbles, and in some cases, the presence of saltpetre is a direct symptom. It's important to note that these signs may not be immediately visible. Sometimes,moisture can build up inside the walls before manifesting itself on the outside. Therefore, it's crucial to have your home inspected by a professional when in doubt, to detect any signs of damp as early as possible.

Moisture on exterior facades can have serious consequences for health and the home. Saltpetre, for example, is not just unsightly; it often manifests itself as mold, which can cause allergies and respiratory problems in occupants. In addition to health problems, damp can also cause structural damage to your home. It can weaken your home's foundations, causing cracks in walls and ceilings. In the long term, this damage can reduce the value of your home and lead to high repair costs. So it's crucial to act quickly at the first sign of damp. The longer damp is left unchecked, the more damage it can do to your home and your health. Early intervention can not only prevent these problems, but also save you money by avoiding costly repairs in the future.