The first thing homeowners look for when discovering signs of damp is a damp proofing solution. They find their peeling wallpaper or black spores and set about treating the damp itself. However, the visible signs of damp are usually the symptom of an underlying issue, not the cause of the problem.
Without understanding what causes the damp before treating it is fighting blind. It will result in wasted money and likely will see the damp return. It’s important to know what caused it in the first place.
Damp Has to Come from Somewhere
Moisture doesn’t teleport into a property. It doesn’t just appear on a whim. There is going to be a source and it’s important that it is identified. That’s the first step in dealing with the issues properly.
In some cases, moisture might be slithering into the property through damaged brickwork, roof coverings, or poorly maintained windows. In others, it may be caused by condensation, leaking pipes, or problems with an existing damp proof course. Not all issues are alike.
The correct solution will depend entirely on what is causing the moisture.
Why the Same Treatment Will Not Solve Every Problem
Damp looks very similar regardless of the source. That damp patch on your landing wall might be caused by water penetrating the brickwork, whilst the one in the dining room is the result of poor ventilation.
Installing a new damp proof course will not solve a problem caused by a hole in the roof. Applying waterproof treatments to a wall will not prevent condensation. Without identifying the source you’re running the gauntlet of spending money on work that solves nothing.
Rising Damp Is Only One Possibility
When moisture appears at a low level in the house, homeowners immediately think of rising damp. However, that is only one possibility. A damaged or bridged damp proof course might allow moisture to rise through a wall but penetrating damp, condensation, and leaking plumbing produces remarkably similar symptoms.
A proper inspection is needed. It will help determine what is happening as opposed to relying on assumptions based on the appearance of damp alone.
The Risks of Covering Up the Problem
Painting over damp patches or replacing damaged plaster may improve the appearance of a room temporarily, but it will not stop moisture from entering the building.
If the underlying issue remains, the damp will return and the cause even more extensive damage. Over time, this will blow your plaster, eat into your timber, and destroy other building materials. Then the cost and scale of the repairs skyrockets.
Older Properties Require a Different Approach
Much like all sources of damp are not the same, the same can be said for properties. Traditional buildings had different ways of managing moisture than modern homes do. Using the wrong materials during renovations sometimes makes the situation worse.
Modern waterproofing finishes prevent older walls from drying naturally. Poor ventilation can also increase the risk of condensation. Before proposing a damp proofing solution, it is important to understand the construction of the property; only then can we diagnose the problem.
Find the Cause Before Choosing the Solution
Effective damp proofing is not simply about applying a particular product or treatment. It begins with identifying where the moisture is coming from and why it is affecting the property.
The right solution may involve repairing external brickwork, improving drainage, fixing a leak, upgrading ventilation or installing a damp proofing system. In some cases, several issues may need to be addressed together.
If you have noticed signs of damp in your home, the first step should be understanding what is causing it. By dealing with the source of the problem rather than simply treating the visible symptoms, you will have a much better chance of protecting your property from further damage.
To discuss your renoation projects with an expert, call us on 01604 380 930, or email info@srgillbuilders.co.uk with your enquiry.
Share this post: