Building query

raniya

Hi, I have damp in my kitchen around thetop of the walls - mostly black mould. I think it is partly caused by condensation. But I've also been told that the kitchen is built with single brick so couldthis be adding to the problem and is there anything I can do which would avoid stripping out kitchen cupboards?
Thanks,
:)R

macman

You need to improve the ventilation, extractor fan or cooker hood?

phill99

Single brick certainly won't help but Macman is right. You need to get rid of the moisture generated in your kitchen. Extraction is the only real option. A cooker hood that simply recirculates is of no use. A simple extractor fan in the wall does the trick but you need to remember to use it when you cook.

Owain_Moneysaver

Depending on the style and construction of the property, external cladding might be an option if you don't want internal work. It's not a small job though, even though all the mess happens outside.

iamcornholio

The OP's problem is most likely condensation related, and whilst heating and ventialtion is the typical answer, it will not help at all within a kitchen and solid single or doulbe brick walls.

Removing the humidity is one part of the solution, but the removal of the cold surface which the air is condensing on is the main thing.

The walls will require insulating. External insulation may not help, so a layer of insulation - polystyrene, or propriatary brands such Celotex/Kingspan/Xtratherm of at least 25mm should be fixed to the wall and then plasterboarded

Depending on the arangement at the ceiling, then if an extenal roof, the celing should be insulated at the eaves/wall juction too - but ensuring that roof ventilation is not blocked

slummymummyof3

Have you tried increasing the heating and ventilation - this will help to alleviate the condensation problem.