Tackling Damp, Mould & Condensation 33


activities to condense. A missing or ineff ective damp-proof course makes the challenge worse. An increasingly popular whole-property solution is the use of modern, breathable lime plasters such as the Limelite Breathable Plaster System. Lime plasters help regulate moisture by absorbing


excess humidity and releasing it back into the air when conditions are dry. T eir microporous structure allows controlled vapour movement while resisting liquid water penetration, supporting healthier internal environments and reducing mould risk. By contrast, conventional gypsum plaster is


hygroscopic – it absorbs and holds moisture from the substrate or atmosphere. Without suitable insulation and ventilation, this can contribute to damp and black mould. While widespread double glazing has improved heat retention, it can also reduce ventilation and increase humidity, highlighting the limitations of gypsum in older properties. Lime plasters are specifi cally suited to older


buildings – common across the social housing sector – and can even help make them warmer and easier to heat. Limelite renovating plasters, for example, use expanded perlite to achieve thermal conductivity values on average three times lower than gypsum plasters, improving overall wall insulation.


ADDED BENEFITS T ere are practical benefi ts for contractors too. Lime plaster is sometimes perceived as challenging to apply, but modern systems such as Limelite have been designed for ease of use and suitability across


Housing Management & Maintenance December/January 2026


a range of skill levels. Limelite is less than half the weight of sand and cement plaster and can be applied to both modern and traditional substrates, including masonry, blockwork, stone and wooden lath. Crucially, lime plasters dry quickly – with products like Limelite drying in as little as 24 hours. T e key to success lies in choosing the right materials. With improved understanding of lime


plasters and access to high-quality systems, social landlords have another eff ective tool in their arsenal as they work to deliver healthier homes under the strengthened legal requirements. For tenants, that can only be a positive step towards safer, better- quality living conditions.


www.limeliteheritage.co.uk


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