Damp proofing

Rising damp occurs when ground moisture seeps into a building’s structure, carrying dampness and salts into the walls and plaster. This issue often arises when existing damp-proof courses are damaged, faulty, or entirely absent.

If left untreated, rising damp can result in:

• Persistent wall staining that’s difficult to cover

• Structural deterioration

• Dry rot, wet rot, and woodworm infestations

• Increased heat loss

• Unhealthy mould growth

• Decreased property value

To effectively treat and eliminate rising damp, the first step is to stop the source of moisture. This is typically achieved by installing a new chemical damp proof course at the base of the wall, forming a barrier to prevent moisture from rising.

After installing the damp proof course, the next step is to replace the existing damp-affected plaster with a specialized cement-based render. This render is designed to resist damp conditions and to hold back any remaining moisture and salts within the wall, preventing them from seeping through the new plaster surface.

A proper damp proof course is essential to stopping the upward movement of moisture in a wall. This horizontal barrier, located at the base of the wall, is a crucial defense against rising damp.

Our fully qualified and experienced surveyor will begin with a comprehensive survey, measuring moisture levels throughout your property to create a detailed moisture profile. This methodical approach helps us rule out any moisture sources unrelated to rising damp.

Using an electronic moisture meter, our surveyor will measure the moisture content in materials like wood, masonry, and plaster. This device works on a resistance principle, providing accurate readings for each material