Dampness in Building and its Treatment

Dampness is a problem which affects a very large number of properties. Some people are prepared to live with some degree of dampness, but not to the extent that it can cause problems with health, safety or the integrity of a building and its aesthetics.

 Dampness in a building is caused by various issues which includes condensation, water penetration, plumbing leaks and Rising damps.

Due to rainfall, it is almost impossible to prevent moisture getting into walls, but modern methods which includes chemical DPC`s, use of cement and so on, can prevent moisture in the wall from affecting the surface. The requirements for climate change and the need for thermal efficiency will increasingly be a major cause of internal dampness and condensation in years to come leading to more unnecessary chemical damp courses.

 The source of rising damp is from ground water which is equally able to affect internal and external walls, the bricks and mortar of the walls act like straws enabling the moisture to travel up the walls. A well constructed and maintained building that has an effective physical damp proof course (DPC) is unlikely to suffer rising damp. On the other hand, there are cases where the damp proof course has either failed or become compromised due to age, the use of poor materials for its construction; there could be a  breach in DPC by subsequent construction work to the building,( e.g. the construction of additional wall). External materials such as soil against the external wall above the DPC could cause dampness on the wall.

                                 Treatment For Dampness

When treating  dampness, it is highly advisable to seek professional assistance, this is because  amateur mistakes  may result in unnecessary and costly work which fail to address the damp problem.In cases where the damp proof course has failed it is imperative that corrective measures are taken as quickly as possible. This is because the continued presence of rising damp on walls will result in the dramatic deterioration of brickwork, internal plastering and décor.Affected areas need to be allowed to dry out thoroughly before remedial work is carried out. Treatments suggested for use in modern construction may not be appropriate for traditionally constructed buildings and can make dampness retained within the structure, only for such dampness to begin to show up again in a few years.The course of action commonly involves the installation of a chemical damp proof course. Following this, diligently re-plaster the wall or walls. The plastering process involves a specialist technique which is designed to provide a salt retardant, waterproof render to combat the effect of ground salts in the masonry and also in order to provide a dry internal finish. This finish will then be smoothed over with a top coat skim to provide  smooth surface ready for redecoration.

 The treatment process involves the removal of skirting boards and plaster from the walls. Plaster is usually removed to a height of 1.2 metres. However due to a range of factors, the required height may be increased. Please note that,If the source or cause of the problem is not treated, or the problem is incorrectly diagnosed, the original problem will continue to develop. Hence, the services of a professional is highly recommended.