Rising damp is a problem no homeowner wants to face. It can ruin your walls, cause mould, and even lead to structural damage if left untreated. If you’ve noticed damp patches, peeling wallpaper, or musty smells in your home, it’s time to take action. This guide will walk you through identifying, treating, and preventing rising damp so you can protect your property and health.
What is Rising Damp?
Rising damp occurs when moisture from the ground travels up your walls through tiny pores in bricks and mortar. Think of it like a sponge soaking up water. This moisture carries salts that can stain and weaken plaster, paint, and even timber.
While rising damp is often misdiagnosed, it is a real issue that requires professional treatment. Unlike condensation or penetrating damp, rising damp moves upwards from the ground, typically stopping around 1 metre high, leaving a distinctive tide mark.
Signs of Rising Damp
To properly treat rising damp, you first need to confirm that it’s the problem. Look out for these common signs:
Tide marks – visible staining or discolouration on walls.
Peeling wallpaper and paint – moisture breaks down adhesives.
Crumbling plaster – a sign of prolonged damp exposure.
White salt deposits – powdery residue on walls from evaporated groundwater.
Rotting skirting boards and floorboards – wood decay caused by excess moisture.
A damp, musty smell – a common indicator of persistent moisture problems.
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What Causes Rising Damp?
Rising damp usually occurs when a property’s damp proof course (DPC) is missing, damaged, or bridged. Most modern buildings have a DPC – a waterproof barrier, typically made of plastic, slate, or bitumen, installed near ground level. However, older buildings may lack a DPC, and even newer ones can suffer if it has deteriorated over time.
Common causes include:
No damp proof course – common in homes built before the 1900s.
Bridged DPC – caused by raised ground levels, rendering, or internal plasterwork overlapping the DPC.
Blocked cavities – debris in wall cavities can create a bridge for moisture.
High external ground levels – soil or pathways sitting above the DPC allow moisture to bypass it.
How to Treat Rising Damp
If you’ve identified rising damp in your home, don’t panic. While it’s a serious issue, it can be treated effectively. Here’s how:
Step 1: Confirm the Diagnosis
Before starting treatment, make sure rising damp is the real issue. A damp proofing specialist can conduct a professional survey to test for moisture levels and confirm the cause.
Step 2: Address the Source of Moisture
Check external ground levels – Lower the soil or paving if it’s above the DPC level.
Clear wall cavities – Remove debris that could be causing bridging.
Check gutters and downpipes – Ensure they are working correctly to prevent excess moisture near your walls.
Step 3: Install a Chemical Damp Proof Course (DPC)
The most effective treatment for rising damp is injecting a chemical damp proof course. Here’s how it works:
Drill holes – Small holes are drilled into the affected walls just above ground level.
Inject the damp proof cream – A specialist cream or liquid is injected into the holes to create a waterproof barrier.
Allow time for absorption – The chemical spreads through the brickwork, preventing further moisture from rising.
Replaster the affected area – Since old plaster may contain salts that attract moisture, it must be removed and replaced with a salt-resistant plaster.
Step 4: Improve Ventilation
Damp homes suffer from poor airflow. Improve ventilation by:
Using extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms.
Keeping air bricks and vents unblocked.
Regularly opening windows to let fresh air circulate.
Extract fan ceilingPIVCeiling Ventilation to reduce condensation
Step 5: Monitor and Maintain
After treatment, regularly inspect walls for signs of damp returning. Keep an eye on external ground levels and ensure good drainage around your home.
Can You Prevent Rising Damp?
Yes! Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some simple ways to stop rising damp before it starts:
Keep external walls dry – Ensure gutters, downpipes, and drains are in good condition.
Avoid bridging the DPC – Don’t allow soil, pathways, or plaster to overlap the damp proof course.
Improve ventilation – Good airflow helps prevent moisture build-up inside your home.
Regular maintenance – Inspect your home annually for early signs of damp and fix any issues quickly.
Why Rising Damp Shouldn’t Be Ignored
Ignoring rising damp can lead to serious consequences:
Structural damage – Prolonged damp weakens walls and timber.
Health issues – Mould and damp can aggravate respiratory conditions.
Increased energy bills – Damp walls lose heat faster, making your home colder.
Reduced property value – Homes with untreated damp issues can be harder to sell.
Get Professional Help Today
If you suspect rising damp in your home, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Professional treatment is the most effective way to resolve damp issues for good.
Ready to transform your home into a healthier, drier space? Contact Damp and Mould Solutions Ltd. today! Our experts are here to help with all your damp and ventilation needs.
