What dampness means in a house
Dampness is moisture that stays in a material or the air: a wall that feels cold and clammy, a basement that smells musty, a ceiling with a stain that grows. It can come from leaks, condensation, groundwater or humid air.
Types of dampness we see
- Leaks from plumbing, roofs and windows
- Condensation on cold walls, windows and ceilings
- Seepage through basement walls and slabs
- Humid crawl spaces and unvented rooms
- Residual moisture after flooding or a water event
How we deal with mold and dampness
We find where the moisture is and where mold has grown, contain the area, remove materials that cannot be saved and clean and dry the rest. We check moisture readings and tell you what we found about the source so the right trade can correct it.
Dampness in a dry climate
Colorado is dry outdoors, but houses can still be damp inside. Winter humidifiers, tight construction, snowmelt, expansive soils and hail-damaged roofs all contribute. Dampness often shows up first as a smell or a cold, clammy wall.
About mold & dampness removal
Dampness is persistent moisture in walls, floors or air that makes mold likely. It can come from water entering the building, rising from the ground or condensing indoors, and it must be addressed alongside mold.
Signs you may need mold & dampness removal
- Cold, clammy walls
- Peeling paint
- Condensation
- Musty smell
- Visible growth
Common causes of the problem
- Penetrating water
- Condensation
- Ground moisture
- Plumbing leaks
- Poor ventilation
Conditions in Littleton and the south Denver area
Basements, north-facing rooms and cold exterior walls tend to stay damp in homes around the area.
Our service area spans Littleton and nearby communities in Arapahoe, Douglas and Jefferson counties.
What affects the scope of the job
Every home is different, so we look at the work area before giving an estimate. These are the factors that shape the plan:
- Extent of dampness
- Source
- Materials
- Drying
- Repairs
Key terms in mold & dampness removal
- Penetrating damp
- Water entering through walls or roofs.
- Condensation
- Moisture forming on cold surfaces.
- Ground moisture
- Moisture moving up from soil.
- Ventilation
- Air exchange that removes humidity.
Related services, guides and areas we serve
- For drying, see Moisture Control.
- For walls, see Emergency Wall Mold Removal.
- For basements, see Emergency Basement Mold Removal.
- For prevention, see Mold Prevention.
These guides go deeper on common questions: How to Stop Mold From Coming Back, How Mold Remediation Works, Step by Step, Can You Remove Mold Yourself? DIY vs Pro, What Affects Mold Removal Cost?. See the ZoneGuard home page for the full list of services. We provide mold & dampness removal to homes in Littleton, Southeast Littleton and Centennial, Columbine, Columbine Valley and Bow Mar, Ken Caryl, Highlands Ranch, Roxborough, and you can see every community and ZIP code on our service areas page.
Frequently asked questions
How do I tell if my home is damp?
Signs include musty smells, condensation on windows, stains, peeling paint and a hygrometer reading above 60 percent. A moisture meter gives a more exact reading.
Will a dehumidifier fix dampness?
It helps lower humidity but does not stop leaks or seepage. Combine it with source repair.
Is dampness always a leak?
No. Condensation and humidity can cause it too. We point out what we see and recommend the right fix.
What causes dampness?
Leaks, condensation, ground moisture or poor ventilation.
Is dampness the same as mold?
No, but damp conditions let mold grow.
How is dampness fixed?
By fixing the source and drying the materials.
Do you repair the cause?
No. We do mold removal only and refer repairs to the right trade.
How do I deal with mold in the house?
Find the moisture source, remove the growth and dry the materials. If the area is larger than about 10 square feet, call a professional.
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Helpful guides
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