DAmp Proofing
What is damp proofing?
The technique of keeping unwanted moisture out of a property to avoid damp problems is called "damp proofing." The structure and wall plasters underneath a property can absorb moisture either upwards or through an external wall surface, usually made of brick or stone. It can result in decay, moist walls, the growth of mould and structural damage once inside. A damp proof course acts as a barrier around a property, keeping moisture from entering the property from the outside.
n buildings, water can flow easily which is unfortunate and if there isn't an effective damp proofing barrier in place, moisture can impact various areas of the property. Moisture will eventually show up on the inside surfaces of a property, leading to broken plaster, wet spots, and possibly black mould. If you notice this, it probably means that the property does not have a good damp proofing system to keep out moisture. Many reports indicate that dampness can affect health, so it's crucial to make sure UK properties are properly protected against it.
What is the cause of damp?
The cause of damp are a numerous of things. There are many reasons why a property might be affected by water or moisture.
Here are a few typical examples of this:
Inadequate defense against rising damp.
Clogged or leaking gutters.
Damaged or absent roof tiles.
Moisture entering through walls that hold back the earth.
Damaged or fractured water pipes.
Deteriorating bricks or weak mortar.
Inadequate airflow.
Water entering a building is known as water ingress. Before applying any damp repair solutions, it is important to address your water leakage problem with a professional to prevent further complications.
Types of damp
Rising Damp
Rising damp happens when water from the ground moves up into your walls through tiny spaces. When water seeps into building materials, your home might also face problems with wood, like wet rot or woodworm.
The clearest indications of rising damp include:
Chipping plaster and peeling paint.
Salt buildup on wall surfaces.
Removing wallpaper.
Moisture marks on walls.
Most properties need a damp proof course installed to prevent moisture from rising. If you believe the property doesn’t have a damp proof course or the damp proof course has failed, please get in touch with our experts on our enquiry form below.
Penetrating Damp
Penetrating damp occurs when water from outside your home seeps in, leading to issues inside. The main reasons for penetrating damp are leaking gutters, plumbing problems, water from walls that hold back soil, poorly installed windows, and flaws in the building's structure.
The clearest indicators of penetrating damp include:
Fractures within the mortar joints and surfaces.
Growth emerging on the external walls.
Plaster blistering refers to the formation of bubbles or blisters on the surface of plaster as it dries.
Penetrating damp can also damage the property's insulation, weaken the flooring, make the structure less stable and cause serious harm to the inside of your home. If you believe the property has penetrating damp, please get in touch with our experts on our enquiry form below.
WHAT SHOULD I DO now I’ve found damp?
If damp is not addressed appropriately and promptly, it can lead to a number of problems in a property. Mould and moisture can lead to internal wall damage, brick and mortar cracks, and the development of wet rot in wood structures. Living in a damp and humid environment can lead to major health problems like fevers, asthma, and breathing difficulties in addition to structural and aesthetic damage.
Both preventative damp solutions and remedial damp treatments are essential for a property with such problems. Contact us right away if you discover any indications of moisture in your house.
To keep a property dry, our team of professionals specialises in designing and installing specialised damp proofing systems.