Rising damp problems in London and the South East England?
While it is somewhat rare, rising damp is about the hardest type of damp to repair. It is caused when ground moisture rises in buildings’ walls. The signs of rising damp are a characteristic tide marks along the wall, crumbling floorboards, and deposits of powdery white salts on both floors and wall.
Rising damp arises at the ground floor since the rising moisture is from the ground. Condensation is mistakenly thought to be the cause of rising damp.
Damp in Concrete Floors
Moisture rises through concrete floors because of the lack of a damp proof membrane when the floor was laid. Damp easily travels through concrete because of its porosity. The problem escalates when the moisture bridges the levels of concrete and get to the top layer. Generally, it is at this stage that you notice damp carpets, cold floor coverings, and warping floors.
Environmental adjustments around your home can have a huge impact on the ground moisture levels. If for instance, you uproot a tree or large shrub from your compound, the water that this plant initially utilised accumulates in the ground. The water levels rise and pressure is exerted on your homes instead. The concrete slabs usually take the biggest hit after the damp proof course has been bridged.
Damp floors may cause damp in walls
Older buildings with solid concrete usually lack a damp proofing system. Without a bridge to protect the structure, water easily rises through the concrete floor. Over time, the floors accumulate damp and it rises through the bricks in the walls, further intensifying the problem.
What is damp proofing?
Damp proofing is the array of methods employed to prevent and eliminate damp problems. Damp can cause rot which destroys and weakens furniture and property. Rot, if left untreated, eventually damages the structure of a building. This makes identification and treatment of damp very critical. Damage of the existing damp proofing system, or lack of one altogether, could lead to issues that escalate to wet and dry rot.
Damp Proofing Services in London
- 01Damp Proofing ServicesRead more
- 02Are you having a Damp Issue?Read more
- 03Damp Treatments & RepairRead more
- 04Basement TankingRead more
- 05Basement Damp RepairRead more
- 06Damp Timber RepairRead more
- 07Damaged Timber RemovalRead more
- 08Structural Timber RepairRead more
- 09Damp Treatment PaintRead more
- 10Damp Proof MembranesRead more
- 11Silicone Damp TreatmentsRead more
- 12Injectable CreamsRead more
- 13Damp Floor Treatment & RepairRead more
- 14Damp Ceiling Treatment & RepairRead more
- 15Damp Wall Treatment & RepairRead more
Damp proofing concrete floors above ground
When putting up a house, or erecting an extension on your property, it is imperative that a damp proofing system is set up during the primary stages of construction.
Currently, it is a requirement that every damp proofing be incorporated in the building plans of every structure. These systems are both durable, strong, and made from Polyethylene 1200 Gauge. The proofing is laid between the concrete layers and hard-core to create a layer impervious to moisture.
Damp Proofing Can Help Prevent
- Rising / Penetrating Damp
- Ingress of Water
- Salt Crystallization
- Plaster Breakdown
- Damp Staining
- Wet Rot / Dry Rot
Liquid epoxy DPM for existing concrete floors
In a situation where the existing damp proof system failed and got bridged, an epoxy Damp Proof Membrane is used as a remedy. It is a solvent-free, low odour liquid that tackles moisture levels in the concrete.
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Repair or replace a damp-proof membrane
If the damp you are experiencing is just a single patch on your wall, you can easily repair it by painting over it to prevent it from spreading. You will also have to apply a double coat of waterproof bitumen latex emulsion on the floor. This you can purchase at your local store. Furthermore, some experts endorse installing foil building paper (with the foil side up) before the paint dries up.
If the damp problem is much bigger, so much so that you cannot repair it yourself, it is recommended that you involve the help of an expert in the field. A certified expert in damp proofing will advise on the best course of action as well as offer the best solutions. Southern Damp Proofing offers industry experts who will visit your property, diagnose the problem and prescribe a lasting solution. Our rates are very competitive, so you are assured that we will solve your damp issue without breaking the bank.
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FAQ’s
Do I have Rising Damp?
Who does Rising Damp effect?
Is rising floor damp a serious problem?
As with many other forms of damp, rising damp is a health risk if you get exposed to it for prolonged periods. Aside from the growth of moulds, the humid and cold environment that you will be subjecting yourself and family to could cause serious respiratory problems. As far as costs go, the cold environment could lead to higher energy bills as the room temperatures reduce drastically.