Loft Mould & Condensation in Middlesbrough & the North East

Black spots on the rafters, a musty smell when you open the hatch, or water dripping from the roof felt on a cold morning: these are signs of condensation in the loft. In almost every case, the mould is a symptom rather than the real problem. It grows because the loft is getting more moisture than it can get rid of. Clean it off without fixing the cause, and it will be back next winter.

We deal with mould and condensation in lofts across Middlesbrough, Teesside and the North East. We find out why the loft is damp, put the cause right and treat the affected surfaces. To be clear about what we do: we work in the loft only. We do not carry out damp-proofing of walls, rising damp treatment or work on mould in the rooms of your home.

What causes loft condensation

A cold loft is designed to be cold, with the insulation on the floor keeping heat in the rooms below. That only works if moisture can escape. Condensation happens when more damp air gets into the loft than can get out. The common causes are:

• Blocked ventilation. Insulation pushed hard into the eaves, often during an earlier install, cuts off the fresh air that should flow in at the edges of the roof.
• Insulation fitted wrongly. Gaps, insulation jammed against the roof, or a top-up laid without thinking about airflow can all upset the balance.
• Draughts through the hatch. An uninsulated, unsealed hatch lets warm, moist air from the landing pour into the loft.
• Bathroom or kitchen fans venting into the loft. A fan duct that ends in the loft, has come loose or was never connected sends damp air straight onto the cold roof.
• Gaps in the ceiling around pipes, cables and downlights.

A roof leak can look similar, with damp timbers and staining, but it is a different problem that needs a roofer. Part of our job is telling the two apart.

Signs of condensation and mould in the loft

• Droplets of water on the felt, nails or timbers, often worst on cold mornings.
• Black or dark spotting on the rafters, the roof lining or the underside of boards.
• A musty smell in the loft or on the landing.
• Damp, matted or darkened insulation, especially near the eaves.
• Rusty nails and fixings, or water marks on the ceiling below.

How we deal with it

1. Inspect and find the cause

We check the eaves, the felt or membrane, the timbers, the insulation, the hatch and any fans or ducts in the loft. We look for signs of a roof leak as well as condensation. A loft inspection is the starting point.

2. Fix the ventilation

Insulation is pulled back from the eaves and eaves vent trays fitted where needed, so air can flow through the loft again. See loft ventilation for more on how this works.

3. Cut down the moisture getting in

The hatch is insulated and draught-stripped. Where a bathroom or kitchen fan is venting into the loft, we explain what needs to change so the air goes outside. Any electrical work on the fan itself should be done by a qualified electrician.

4. Treat the mould

Affected timbers and roof lining are treated with a fungicidal treatment to kill the surface mould. Treatment alone is not a cure, which is why it comes alongside fixing the cause.

5. Put the insulation right

Insulation that is damp, mouldy or badly matted should be removed and replaced. New insulation is laid to 270mm with the eaves kept clear. If the existing layer is sound, a top-up may be all it needs.

When it is more than a loft problem

If we find wet or soft timbers, signs of rot, a roof leak, or damp that seems to be coming from somewhere other than the loft, we tell you plainly. Structural timber repairs and roof repairs are for a roofer or builder, and damp in walls is for a damp specialist. We will not offer to treat something we do not do.

Preventing it coming back

• Keep the eaves clear and do not push stored items or insulation into the edges of the loft.
• Make sure extractor fans are used and are ducted outside.
• Keep the hatch closed and its seal in good condition.
• Glance into the loft once a year, especially after a cold spell.

Our guide to loft condensation and ventilation explains the causes in more depth, and our main loft insulation page explains how insulation and ventilation work together.

What affects the cost

The price depends on the size of the loft, how much mould needs treating, what ventilation work is needed, whether insulation has to be removed and replaced, and access. You get a written quotation after a free assessment.

Who does the work

The work is carried out by The Insulation Company or an approved installation partner. Eligible installations come with a written guarantee of up to five years; the terms are set out in your quotation.

Areas we cover

We cover Middlesbrough and Teesside, County Durham, Tyne & Wear, Northumberland, North Yorkshire and York, and parts of West Yorkshire and the East Riding. See all the areas we cover, or call 0800 229 4668 to book a free assessment.