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Types of Ventilation

Services

Ventilation

Effective ventilation is essential for preventing condensation, damp, and mould in homes, particularly in well‑insulated properties with limited natural airflow. We provide expert ventilation solutions, including the design and installation of both passive and mechanical systems, tailored for single rooms or entire properties. As homes become increasingly airtight due to retrofitting and modern building regulations, the demand for intelligent ventilation systems is growing. These systems respond to environmental data, automatically ensuring optimal airflow and humidity control. Strategic placement of these intelligent solutions is key to their effectiveness, resulting in improved indoor air quality, healthier living environments, and mould‑free homes.

Types of Ventilation

Passive Ventilation

  • Strategically located vents in windows or walls to facilitate natural air movement.
  • Essential in rooms without mechanical ventilation.
  • Typically adjustable to control airflow depending on environmental conditions.

Background Ventilation (Whole‑House / Continuous Ventilation)

  • Required in all rooms to provide a minimum airflow.
  • Typically achieved via trickle vents in windows or purpose‑made air bricks.
  • Ensures continuous fresh air and helps prevent condensation and mould.

Extract Ventilation (Moisture-Prone Rooms)

  • Required in rooms with high moisture output: bathrooms, kitchens, utility rooms, and toilets.
  • Must meet minimum extraction rates (litres/second) as per Approved Document F.
  • Can be mechanical extract fans or passive vent systems.
  • Must discharge air directly outside (not into lofts or cavities).

Intermittent (Boost) Ventilation

  • Allows temporary increased airflow when moisture levels spike (e.g. cooking, bathing).
  • Often integrated into mechanical extraction fans or intelligent ventilation systems.
  • Can be manually switched or sensor‑triggered (humidity‑controlled).

Whole-House Mechanical Ventilation (MVHR / MEV)

  • Increasingly common in modern, airtight homes.
  • Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) supplies fresh air while recovering heat.
  • Mechanical Extract Ventilation (MEV) provides targeted adjustable extract from wet rooms.
  • Reduces heat loss while ensuring sufficient air exchange.

Positive Input Ventilation (PIV)

  • Supplies fresh, filtered air into the property to improve air quality.
  • Reduces condensation by maintaining a slight positive pressure in the building.
  • Can help prevent mould growth, improve air quality, and complement extract ventilation.
  • Particularly effective in retrofit applications and properties with limited natural ventilation.

Ventilation in New Builds / Renovations

  • Modern building regulations require airtight construction combined with controlled ventilation.
  • Intelligent systems may include humidity sensors, CO₂ monitoring, and automated control.
  • Purpose is to prevent condensation, improve indoor air quality, and energy efficiency.

Additional Considerations

  • Ventilation design must comply with Part F of the Building Regulations in new builds and existing dwellings.
  • Airflow rates depend on room type/size, occupancy, and building airtightness.
  • Placement of vents and ducts is critical for system effectiveness.
  • Systems should be maintained regularly to ensure ongoing compliance and performance.

Why Choose Us?

Certified damp specialists with years of experience

Comprehensive surveys with detailed reporting and potential solutions (short and long term)

Friendly, professional service from start to finish

Don’t let damp damage your home. Contact us today for a damp survey, and let’s find the right solution for your property.

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