Going away in your caravan for a weekend, week or even for longer can be so much fun but you might start to see a problem with condensation. This doesn’t just happen at certain times of the year or if you choose to dry clothing in your caravan. There are other ways in which condensation can be caused.
Condensation in a caravan roof is caused by poor ventiliation whenn cooking, cleaning or drying clothes. It can also be caused by nature and severe weather conditions. To tackle condensation you need good air flow, wipe down wet surfaces and have dehumidifiers to tackle lingering condensation.
In this article we are going to cover the ways in which condensation can be caused, how to prevent and how to understand the difference between condensation and damp.
What Causes Condensation in A Caravan Roof?
Condensation forms when the volume of water in the air increases. When this air touches a cold surface like a roof or window, it cools rapidly, until it can no longer hold the moisture. This vapor becomes liquid and settles as liquid droplets on the cold surface, leading to condensation phenomena.
There are several possible causes of condensation on a caravan roof. Let’s take a look at the 5 most common:
1. Poor Ventilation
Refusal to keep the windows and doors open in your caravan when carrying out daily activities, especially during cold weather, is the major cause of condensation. Some caravans come with features such as double glazing and central heating, which help to keep you warm during cold weather.
When you turn the heat up and keep the doors and windows closed, this creates a temperature difference between the caravan and outdoors which usually causes condensation.
2. Cooking
Cooking in your caravan, especially when closed up, can create a build-up of moisture in the air. It also releases large amounts of water vapor into the atmosphere, thereby increasing the temperature of your caravan.
All these factors will cause the air inside to become warmer and more humid. The temperature difference between your warm interior caravan and the cold outdoors will make condensation form on cold surfaces like the roof.
3. Weather
During cold weather or rainfall, the outdoors is cold, and we close the windows and doors to keep us warm during these conditions. After some time, you might notice the air in your caravan become warmer and more humid.
This is also aided by the use of heaters to keep us warm during cold weather. Condensation will then begin to form on cold surfaces like the windows and roofs. This is also the case when the weather is hot, and we have to use air conditioners to keep ourselves cool.
4. Wet Items
Wet items such as towels, coats, jackets, and even dogs or other animals contribute to condensation. The air in the atmosphere will become more humid due to these wet items in your caravan, which will cause condensation when it touches a cold surface.
So, any wet item you have in your caravan, especially in the bathroom may be contributing more than you know to the condensation problem you have.
5. Humans and Nature
By staying in the caravan, you are also increasing the chances of condensation. The heat from the human skin and breath will give off moisture to the air, which we already know is how condensation forms. An adult can produce up to 1 liter of water in 12 hours just from breathing. This only goes to show that condensation is an inevitable phenomenon that cannot be eliminated.
Any other activity that increases the temperature or moisture in your caravan will cause condensation, such as:
- Showering or bathing
- Spreading or keeping wet clothes in the caravan
- Putting your caravan close to a water source
How To Prevent Condensation In A Caravan Roof
The best way to prevent instances of condensation from happening is properly ventilating your caravan. Proper ventilation will ensure that the caravan’s air is cycled by bringing in cooler, drier air from outside and pushing humid air out. This is especially necessary when you’re carrying out tasks that generate heat or add moisture to the air, such as cooking.
You can’t always ensure ventilation by opening your windows or doors, especially in winter. In such instances, you have to look for other condensation prevention techniques as described below.
1. Adding Airflow
If your caravan does not have the ideal ventilation openings, you might need to add an airflow method so condensation does not build up. Ideally, your caravan should have at least two ventilation openings placed on opposite sides of the vehicle or far apart so that the air can circulate adequately.
Sometimes, opening the window may not be enough to take care of the humidity in your caravan. Putting a vent fan on the ceiling and allowing it to run for a long time with an open window will take care of the moisture in the caravan.
The most difficult part of installing a vent fan is making a hole in the roof. This will help you get adequate airflow during the hot summer and as well as winter.
Another option is using a small battery-operated or DC fan that you can place in your open window or by the roof area to reduce condensation. You would need to set a reminder to turn it on when you’re about to sleep or engage in activities like cooking that generate moisture or humidity.
2. Use Campsite For Laundry & Cleaning
If you’re constantly on the move with your caravan, there’s a chance you might come across campsites. It is better to use the facilities provided in campsites for laundering, showering and so on when you can. This will prevent the extra build-up of condensation generated from these activities. So, if you’re the type that loves camping in your caravan, be on the lookout for campsites and take advantage of the facilities available there as much as you can to put less strain on your caravan.
3. Use Wood Stove
In cold weather, you can install a wood stove in your caravan to keep a temperature balance. Wood stoves are cost-effective and are a quick fix for those that are comfortable with them. They work by sucking the moisture out of the air, so condensation does not form.
Wood stoves are very powerful, and often, they might do their work a little too well – causing the air to have little to no moisture. In instances like this, you might need to leave cups of water outside, especially when you sleep.
4. Don’t Hang Wet Clothes or Towels in Your Caravan
As earlier explained, putting wet clothes or drying laundry in your caravan bathroom might be a great way to save money, but it also contributes a great deal to the humidity. Even if you can get away with this during summer, the condensation build-up during winter and cold weather is far worse.
The extra moisture in the air will cause condensation to form in your roof and windows. So, as much as possible, try to avoid spreading clothes in your caravan, especially during winter.
5. Externally Ventilated Air Heaters
If you have the money to spend a little more, you could go for externally ventilated heaters. They are one of, if not the best way to keep warm in your caravan in winter. Externally ventilated heaters use fuel from big tanks to keep the caravan warm and then push out the combustible gases and humidity out through the air exhaust.
Other heating options produce far more water vapor than externally ventilated air heaters, making it a great choice. Another advantage over other heating options is that they are vented to the outside, so you can close your windows, making you more comfortable in your caravan.
6. Dry When You’re Finished
After you are done in the caravan, dry and clean up all the surfaces, especially if you’re not going to use it for a while. Before leaving the caravan, take time to dry up all the damp surfaces in it, including walls, cupboards, and furniture. Also, leave the doors and windows open for air to circulate in your caravan and dry up the moisture.
Remember to check the fabrics and soft furnishings and wipe down the walls with a dry cloth. If there is still any lingering residue, you could use a hair drier to completely dry out all the moisture. If you’re not going to use the caravan in along time, leave damp absorption crystals out in small dishes.
Place these crystals in each room or compartment of your caravan to absorb the moisture. A good idea is to buy a waterproof breathable all-round cover when storing it during winter.
7. Use a Vapor Barrier
You place a vapor barrier in the warm side of your insulation, and if installed correctly, it will block the humid air in your caravan from getting the cold materials such as your roof, metal, and windows, effectively preventing condensation. The challenge of using a vapor barrier is that it needs to be installed correctly. If not, the condensation effects could be far worse.
If you place the vapor barrier up against your caravan wall, there is a chance for moisture to still form in your wall insulation unless it is sealed completely. If you do not attach vapor barriers edge-to-edge- with other materials that are moisture-resistant, condensation can form behind the metal and quickly degenerate to rust or mold if not spotted quickly.
8. Clear the Air Vents
Regularly check the air vents in your caravan during your cleaning. Remove any obstruction that may be clogging it make sure they are kept open. A clear air vent will not trap moisture and create an allowance for fumes from water heaters and fires to escape freely.
When you’re using the central heating system, it should stay at lower temperatures for long periods rather than at full capacity for shorter periods. Condensation build-up is less when at lower temperatures, and it will ensure your caravan has a steady temperature almost consistent with the surrounding.
If your central heating is at full capacity, there will be a large temperature difference with the exterior, thereby building up condensation fast.
9. Pick Better Spots for Your Caravan
The place you situate your caravan plays a role in the condensation levels you will experience. If you are strategic in choosing this, you could be better prepared for anything that comes your way. It is important to find a balance between an area that is sheltered and still has enough breeze for proper ventilation of your caravan.
Your caravan should also align with the prevailing winds for proper airflow. An elevated ground is preferable because cold and denser air will generally be in lower areas like valleys. Try to avoid staying too close to water sources also, as they will also add a great deal to your humidity levels, thereby aiding the formation of condensation.
10. Avoid Power Washers
If you want to wash your caravan, avoid the use of jet washers, powerful hoses, or any other hoses that release water at high pressure. These powerful washers can sometimes damage the external body of the caravan and force water through tiny openings.
If you spot water in any openings in your caravan after a wash, use a cloth to wipe it down. If you have to wash your caravan for any reason, leave the doors and windows open for a while so it can dry thoroughly.
11. Regular Maintenance
Keep your caravan in good condition and get it resealed to take care of any leaks and prevent condensation. Ideally, it would be best to service your caravan annually, and the service should include inspection for leaks resealing.
If this is not included in the service offered by your dealer, you can request it and make sure it becomes a standard for you.
You should also check your roof joints for any damages. You can reseal the joints every three years to ensure the timber construction and side panel joints stay in good condition. If you’re going to keep your caravan locked for a long period, remember to visit it once in a while and open up the windows and doors. This will help make the air circulate regularly and prevent the development of condensation from humidity.
12. Use a Dehumidifier
Depending on the location of your caravan, a dehumidifier might be your best bet to reducing condensation in your caravan. Dehumidifiers work daily, and the newer models have a humidistat that detects the relative humidity and adjusts accordingly with the humidity level.
It works excellently to reduce moisture, freshen the air and prevent damp. It is very good for rainy days and the winter seasons when damp clothes can contribute to the humidity.
There are two ways to go in selecting dehumidifiers. You can select the stand-alone, disposable packets or go for the electric ones. Disposable dehumidifiers can be easily hanged in the wardrobe or areas that are hard to reach in the caravan.
You will have to keep buying and replacing them regularly, unlike the electric dehumidifiers.
Is an Electric Dehumidifier safe for a Caravan?
A common misconception is that dehumidifiers are not safe for a caravan, which is false. As long as you follow all of the manufacturer’s instructions and make sure to empty it regularly, it is perfectly safe to use an electric dehumidifier.
Another thing to be mindful of is not leaving it turned on for a long time in your caravan, especially if you’re not there to keep watch. However, this isn’t an issue if you decide to sleep with it overnight as long as you’re present.
Pros of Electric Dehumidifier in a Caravan
- No need to buy replacements
- Safe to use around pets as disposable ones are harmful to animals if ingested.
- Very easy to use, and it produces efficient results.
- It is safer for the environment as there is less plastic waste.
Cons of Electric Dehumidifier in a Caravan
- Occupies a considerable amount of space
- It needs to be emptied.
- You need to plug it into a power source.
Ways to Treat Condensation in A Caravan Roof
Below are ways to take care of persistent condensation in your caravan roof. You may find some of these easy to keep up to to prevent condensation and create a good routine in taking care of your caravan.
Check for Leaks
If you are dealing with constant condensation in your caravan and don’t know the cause, moisture may be entering your space through leaking. Moisture always leads to condensation after a temperature change, and if this isn’t detected quickly, it can deteriorate fast.
So, check your caravan thoroughly for any signs of leaks, especially the corners, roofs, and areas that are hard to get to. During your stay, a tube of silicone can help you in situations like this to quickly seal-up any holes you discover.
If the condensation in your caravan needs treatment, your case is likely to be extreme and is now a case of water ingress or dampness. Other than that, if you notice condensation, you can wipe it down with a cloth and follow the prevention techniques.
Difference Between Condensation and Damp
Condensation is often confused for damp, but they are not the same. Damp is caused when water leaks in through exterior seals of your caravan and get trapped in the wall construction at the vinyl’s back. Damp is a more extreme case, and often, if condensation is left untreated, it can develop into damp.
Signs of Damp
Quickly identifying the damp signs can help you act quickly before it deteriorates fast and becomes a bigger problem.
Visible Spots: If condensation is left untreated, dampness will leave visible spots from mold and mildew growth. This is usually the case in corner areas or other areas in your caravan that are hard to reach. You will see these as black spots, and they can appear on clothes, walls, furnishings, floors, and roofs.
Unpleasant Odor: Areas with damp have an unpleasant musty odor that usually spreads fast. This odor can make it unbearable to stay in such areas for extended periods.
Soft Walls: Walls exposed to continuous condensation will become weak and soft when you press them.
Damp Patches: Your ceilings and walls will have clear damp-looking patches making them unattractive and unpleasant to look at.
Damp Meter
These are devices that can help detect damp in your caravan even if you haven’t seen any of the signs listed above. It is by far the most reliable way to detect damp in your caravan or anywhere else. If you have had experiences with damp or extreme condensation in the past, it might be worth it to invest in purchasing one. The cost of a damp meter is far lower than what it would cost you to take care of a damp problem.
When you’re using the meter, remember to check the hidden corners and roof where the damp is likely to occur. It is more probable for damp to be under a rubber sealing near the window than the center of a wall. The outside of pipes and wires is commonplace where liquid stays and flows through, especially when your caravan moves. Fixing holes in your caravans like those in a satellite dish or bike rack installation are common hiding places of water.
Damp meter readings and how to interpret them
| Damp Meter Reading | Meaning |
| 0-15% | No problem |
| 15-20% | Professionals need to investigate the area |
| 21-30% | Remedial action is most likely needed fast. Caravan may show signs of damp. |
| >30% | They may be some structural damage in your caravan. |
Irrespective of how small the damp reading is, you must remain vigilant because it can quickly escalate and cause problems if left untreated. It is always great to seek professionals’ help if you are not confident of your ability to do the checks.
Steps in Removing Mold and Mildew
- The first and most important thing to do is to make sure you are wearing a proper safety kit to reduce the effects of any infection. This kit should include gloves, an apron or overalls, and a face mask.
- Purchase a solution of washing up liquid and mix it with warm water. An alternative is a mixture of one-part warm water and one part vinegar. Never use bleach to clean mold or mildew.
- Use a scrubbing brush to thoroughly clean the affected areas along with your solution.
- Dry the infected areas with an absorbent cloth you do not intend to use anymore.
- Fill a spray bottle with a mixture of 1 little of water and one tablespoon of clove oil. Spray the affected areas with the mixture to stop the damp from returning to the same area. Wait for 20 minutes before wiping off.
If the mildew or mold is very bad or recurring, it might be better to get an expert to handle it like a professional.
Health Risks if You Don’t Remove Damp, Mildew, and Mold
Many people overlook the dangers of condensation developing into damp, mildew, or mold, but they are very harmful to health. The adverse health effects are more apparent for children, the elderly, or anyone with other underlying health problems.
- Asthma patients might have additional complications if the mildew spores are breathed in through their lungs.
- Allergic reactions if you inhale spores
- Skin rashes, bacterial infections, fungal infections, hives, and eczema are some of the skin conditions that may result from exposure to damp and spores.
- People with weak immune systems are in danger of lung infections when exposed.