Why Damp is a Bigger Deal Than You Think
Let’s be honest—damp isn’t the most exciting topic. But if you run or manage a warehouse or factory, it should be.
Why? Because moisture can ruin your building, damage your stock, harm your equipment, and even make your team sick.
Have you ever noticed:
- A weird, musty smell?
- Mould on the walls?
- Rust on your tools?
- Damp patches that don’t seem to dry?
If yes, then your building might already have a damp problem. But don’t worry—we’re here to help.
This guide will walk you through:
- What causes damp
- How to spot it early
- What can you do about it
- When to call in the pros
Ready to get started?
🚨 What Can Go Wrong If You Ignore Damp?
Ignoring damp is like ignoring a leak in your roof—it always gets worse. Here’s what can happen if you let it build up:
- Structural damage: Moisture weakens walls and floors over time
- Mould and mildew: These can cause health issues for staff
- Spoiled stock: Especially dangerous for food, paper, textiles, or electronics
- Damaged machinery: Rust and electrical issues are common
- Failed inspections: Health and safety violations can shut operations down
And let’s not forget the cost of repairs, which can add up quickly if the damage spreads.
What Can Go Wrong If You Ignore Damp?
Ignoring damp is like ignoring a leak in your roof—it always gets worse. Here’s what can happen if you let it build up:
- Structural damage: Moisture weakens walls and floors over time
- Mould and mildew: These can cause health issues for staff
- Spoiled stock: Especially dangerous for food, paper, textiles, or electronics
- Damaged machinery: Rust and electrical issues are common
- Failed inspections: Health and safety violations can shut operations down
And let’s not forget the cost of repairs, which can add up quickly if the damage spreads.
What Causes Damp in Industrial Buildings?
There’s no one reason why damp appears—it’s usually a mix of things. Here are the most common culprits in warehouses and factories:
| Cause | Typical Signs | Why It Matters |
| Condensation | Water droplets on walls or windows | Can cause mould and health risks |
| Rising Damp | Damp patches near floor level | Damages walls and floors |
| Roof Leaks | Water dripping or stains from above | Can damage stock or machines |
| Blocked Gutters | Overflowing water on the outside | Leads to water seeping into walls |
| Poor Ventilation | Musty air and foggy windows | Makes moisture stay trapped inside |
👉 Each of these can sneak up on you, especially in large spaces where small issues go unnoticed.
How to Spot Damp Early (Before It Costs You)
Don’t wait until the walls are crumbling or staff start complaining. Here are signs you can spot early on:
Visual Clues:
- Dark patches on walls or ceilings
- Bubbling paint or peeling wallpaper
- Rust on tools, shelves, or pipes
- Mould or mildew growth (usually black or green)
Smell Clues:
- Musty or earthy smells, especially in corners or storage rooms
What Staff Might Say:
- “It smells weird in here”
- “The floor always feels damp.”
- “My throat hurts more when I’m at wor.k”
Bonus Tip:
Use a humidity meter. If your indoor humidity is regularly above 60%, you may have a moisture issue.
What You Can Do to Control Damp
So, what can you actually do to stop damp? Here’s a simple list of effective steps:
Improve Airflow
- Open vents and windows when possible
- Install extractor fans in moist areas
- Use industrial dehumidifiers to reduce moisture in the air
Fix Leaks Fast
- Check your roof for cracks or missing tiles
- Clean and unblock gutters regularly
- Inspect pipes and joints for any signs of drips
Add Damp-Proofing Materials
- Damp-proof membranes under concrete floors
- Waterproof coatings on walls
- Sealants around windows and joints
Upgrade Ventilation Systems
In large factories, natural airflow often isn’t enough. Mechanical ventilation systems can help pull damp air out and bring fresh air in.
When Should You Call a Damp Specialist?
Great question! Some issues you can manage yourself, like unblocking gutters or using a dehumidifier. But for bigger or hidden problems, it’s best to get help.
Call a professional if:
- The same damp patch keeps coming back
- You see signs of rising damp
- Your building is large and hard to inspect
- You’re preparing for a health & safety audit
- You want a permanent fix, not a temporary one
At FTG Ltd, we offer full damp surveys and customised solutions for warehouses, storage units, logistics hubs, and more.
Real-Life Example: Essex Warehouse Damp Issue Resolved
Let’s share a quick story from the field.
A logistics company in Essex reached out to FTG Ltd after staff began noticing musty odours and visible mould on stored cardboard boxes.
The Problem
- Condensation due to poor roof insulation
- A broken gutter leaking into a wall cavity
- Resulting in stock damage and a failed internal audit
What FTG Ltd Did
- Conducted a full damp inspection using professional moisture meters
- Repaired the broken gutter and installed ventilation improvements
- Applied waterproof coating to the affected internal walls
- Installed industrial-grade dehumidifiers to control future humidity
The Outcome
✅ No more mould or unpleasant smells
✅ Passed health & safety checks
✅ Happier staff and preserved stock
Fixing damp issues early is always the smarter and more cost-effective option.
FAQs About Damp in Industrial Buildings
Is damp worse in commercial spaces than in homes?
Yes. Bigger spaces = more air = more chances for condensation and missed signs. Plus, you’ve got more people and equipment at risk.
How much does damp-proofing cost?
It depends on the building’s size and the type of solution. Small fixes could cost a few hundred pounds. Larger projects might run into the thousands, but it’s an investment in your property.
How long does a damp survey take?
Most inspections take a few hours. You’ll get a full report and recommendations shortly after.
Will damp fail my safety inspection?
If it affects air quality, causes mould, or creates a slipping hazard—yes. That’s why prevention is key.
