Damp spots gable end attic wall

RebelButtMunch

Hi. Semi detached house. I was up in the attic and I noticed that an area of the gable end exposed wall is mouldy and looks to have damp drops on it.

Sand and cement render on the outside that looks intact but might have a slight crack... hard to see.

Roof looks OK from the inside.

Is this a matter of just needing more ventilation in the attic maybe or could water be penetrating from the outside?

Cerco

If there is a chimney over the gable then it is probably due to lead flashing movement. It may need to be dressed and sealed or replaced. This is a common problem.

mickdw

What is the wall make up?

Double wall blockwork or hollow block?

RebelButtMunch

Hollow block

RebelButtMunch

Thanks. No chimney on that side

mickdw

Ya with hollowblock, you are strongly relying on external render so I'd have a look around Externally at all areas above the damp spot.

bootser

Hi, sorry to resurrect an old thread, but I've just discovered exactly the same issue as yourself! Did u get any resolution for yours?

TIA

RebelButtMunch

I've been having a look and a think about it. I'm in the camp now where I think that temperature changes are just causing that. It just seems to come and go. Probably needs more ventilation in the attic. I also notice that there is water droplets forming on the felt sometimes, again it's only the very odd time and probably linked temp changes.

EDIT: I notice on google maps that my neighbours have vents built into the roof where as I dont and I'm depending on vents from the edges/eves

bootser

Thanks! Appreciate the reply. Was thinking along those lines myself. Gonna keep an eye on it and see if it dries out with a bit more ventilation, I'll let u know how I get on🤞