The effects of damp can be many, impacting both the property and the people who occupy it. The longer that damp ignored in the home, the more serious the issue can become.
There are several issues that can occur to your property when there is a damp problem. Damp in walls greatly reduces their ability to insulate the property, generally resulting in a much colder environment. This necessitates the use of more energy in heating your home. Damp can spread around the property into woodwork and brickwork, which causes crumbling plaster and rotting floors. Not only does damp ruin your decor, it can also lead to structural damage, if left for extended periods of time. Dry rot and wet rot can occur from damp coming into contact with timber- for example, when floors and timber beams absorb moisture from a wall.
A damp environment creates the perfect habitat for mould to grow, often as a result of condensation and humidity issues. Fungal microbes thrive in damp conditions, so it is possible that you may notice green or black mould developing on your walls and ceilings, if your home has a damp problem.
Mould can aggravate and cause serious health problems to those spending a lot of time in the property. It can lead to the development of aggravation of issues such as asthma, particularly to vulnerable people such as children, adolescents and the elderly. It can also affect the immune system, which therefore makes people more susceptible to other illnesses.