ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Damp (structural)

When something is damp, it means it's wet and sometimes a little bit slimy or moldy. When we talk about dampness in buildings, we mean that the walls, floors, or ceilings are wet and not completely dry. This can happen when there's too much moisture in the air, when water leaks into the building from outside, or when water is used inside the building and doesn't dry up properly.

Dampness is not good for buildings because it can weaken the structure and cause things like mold, rot, and corrosion. Mold can make people sick and rot can create holes in the walls or floors. So, it's important to keep buildings dry and prevent dampness from happening in the first place.

Some ways to prevent dampness include making sure there's proper ventilation (like windows or air vents), fixing any leaks in the plumbing or roof, and using materials in the building that resist moisture. It's also important to dry up any spills or water leaks as soon as possible and not let them sit for too long.

If you notice dampness in a building, it's important to get it checked out by a professional to see what's causing it and how to fix it.