Condensation in High‑Rise & Strata Buildings

Condensation in High‑Rise & Strata Buildings

Condensation is a widespread but often misunderstood moisture issue affecting high‑rise and strata buildings across New South Wales. Unlike leaks or rising damp, condensation forms when warm, moisture‑laden air meets cooler surfaces, causing water to condense on ceilings, walls, windows, and within building cavities. Over time, this leads to staining, mould growth, corrosion, and deterioration of finishes and structure.

CPR specialises in diagnosing and resolving condensation‑related moisture problems in difficult‑access buildings using AIMMS™—our data‑driven inspection and analysis system—combined with Scaffold‑Free™ access technologies to deliver precise, long‑term solutions.

What Is
Condensation?

Condensation is the process where water vapour in the air turns into liquid when surface temperatures drop below the dew point. This condensation of moisture commonly appears during cooler months or in buildings with poor ventilation and thermal bridging.

Typical indicators include:

  • Moisture condensation stains on ceilings
  • Water droplets forming on windows and frames
  • Damp patches on internal walls
  • Musty odours and visible mould
  • Persistent surface moisture without rainfall

Understanding the difference between leaks and moisture and condensation is essential for applying the correct remediation strategy.

Moisture Condensation in Building Walls and Ceilings

Condensation frequently develops inside wall cavities and ceiling voids where warm air becomes trapped. Over time, this can result in:

  • Moisture condensation on walls
  • Moisture condensation in building walls
  • Mould moisture condensation stains on ceilings
  • Degradation of plasterboard and coatings
  • Corrosion of metal fixings and reinforcement

These issues are particularly common in apartments with limited airflow, sealed façades, or inadequate insulation.

CPR’s AIMMS™ Diagnostic Process for Condensation

Condensation is often misdiagnosed as water ingress, leading to ineffective repairs. CPR uses AIMMS™ to accurately identify moisture behaviour and temperature relationships.

Our assessment may include:

  • Internal and external moisture mapping
  • Thermal analysis to identify cold bridges
  • Surface temperature and humidity measurements
  • Assessment of ventilation and airflow pathways
  • Reviewing façade performance and insulation

This allows us to determine the role of moisture condensation temperature and design targeted solutions that address the root cause.

Protect Your Building
From Condensation Damage

Condensation problems rarely resolve on their own. Correct diagnosis and building‑wide solutions are essential to protect finishes, structure, and occupant health.

Explore our complete building remediation and preservation services or learn more about our long‑term concrete repair and durability solutions.