Air bricks and condensation

We have a cavity of under 30mm with no insulation. we are insulating the suspended floor due to damp. The air bricks we feel make the walls cold causing condensation. Does my cavity need air flow.? should I replace air bricks with telescopic ones.?

Asked by Belinda on 25th Jan 2023
Expert Trade Answers
"Yes very important air flow if you close you have big problems you need extended air flow"
Answered on 25th Jan 2023 - Member since Oct 2022 - report
"Just remember condensation is usually caused through lack of air flow in the room"
Answered on 25th Jan 2023 - Member since Dec 2022 - report
"If you're insulating the suspended floor due to damp issues and you feel that the air bricks are making the walls cold and causing condensation, it's essential to address the ventilation in the cavity. While air flow is vital for preventing moisture buildup and maintaining a healthy environment, replacing the air bricks with telescopic ones could be a good solution.

Telescopic air bricks can provide adjustable ventilation, allowing you to control the airflow in the cavity. This can help regulate moisture levels and reduce the risk of condensation issues while still allowing for necessary ventilation. It's a good idea to consult with a professional builder or a specialist in cavity ventilation to determine the best approach for your specific situation and ensure proper ventilation without compromising insulation effectiveness."
Answered on 4th Aug 2024 - Member since Jun 2024 - report
"Your cavity should be left clear and allowed to breathe if it’s an older property.

You should have the damp problem investigated by some one component in structural damp proofing or PCA Approved contractor."
Answered on 25th Jan 2023 - Member since Sep 2019 - report
"houses need to breath and air flow is very important.if you have no air flow you can end up with dry rot on your floor joists."
Answered on 7th Mar 2023 - Member since Jun 2020 - report
"yes you need air bricks telescopic vents is a must . or you will be getting damp thanks William"
Answered on 30th Jan 2023 - Member since Jan 2023 - report
"Bottom line is you need air flow under a suspended floor. Air bricks should be left, to maintain the air flow under your suspended floor. You can insulate between the joists and on top of the joists to get a better UValue."
Answered on 5th Feb 2023 - Member since Jan 2023 - report
"Cavity walls do not require air bricks /air flow. Air bricks are to allow air flow under suspended floors. Or in certain situations such as gas fires and boilers to allow fresh air to enter the property."
Answered on 26th Jan 2023 - Member since Jan 2023 - report
"I have the same situation in my house. 50mm cavity. I can find no-one to fill the cavity due to the small size. telescopic vents are only generally used when you have a block and beam floor or continuing an old floor through a concrete one, so I don't think that would help! The only real way to warm the rooms up is to clad either the outside with solid insulation and render or baton and clad the inside with solid insulation. As the outside of my house is 'brick' ,I don't want to do that and by doing the inside you lose some space and have to re-jig your skirting and sockets !! It's a hard choice but the only real options. I hope this helps"
Answered on 3rd Mar 2024 - Member since Jan 2024 - report
"If it's a block and beam floor it should have air flow underneath your floor to prevent mould and damp

The floor should also have a damp proof membrane with insulation and floor screed"
Answered on 27th Jan 2023 - Member since Jan 2019 - report
Find Tradespeople, compare up to 3 quotes!
It's FREE and there are no obligations
Ask a Trade
Got a question that only a tradesperson can answer? We have thousands of trades ready to answer any question you may have.
Ask your question
Ask a Trade

Are you looking for advice on a DIY project or have a question for our tradespeople?

We'll email your question to tradespeople who are skilled in your chosen category.

Your question will be made public - please do not include any personal details.

{{ first(ask.errors)[0] }}

By continuing you agree to the Community Guidelines.

Report Content

{{ first(reportForm.errors) }}

Thank you

Your report has been created and will be investigated shortly.

Ready to get a price for your home improvement project?
Get started

Over 1 million homeowners and over 50,000 tradespeople
use MyJobQuote nationwide each year