Rising Damp Treatment

Damp and Mould Solutions, specialists can safeguard the structural integrity and health of your homes and buildings. Operating throughout North and West London, we specialise in comprehensive rising damp treatment services.

At Damp and Mould Solutions, we understand that rising damp can afflict any structure, causing unsightly damage and potential health hazards. That’s why we’ve honed our skills to diagnose your issue and provide effective, tailored treatment solutions.

Our commitment to excellence ensures that we have the knowledge for and tools to combat rising damp efficiently regardless of your building type.

What is rising damp

Rising Damp is one of the 3 main types of structural damp problems relating to liquid and moisture affecting floors, walls, and ceilings. In the case of rising damp, groundwater is absorbed into the pore of brickwork and rises up through capillary action. The widely recongised visual effect of this is a line known as a tidemark that marks the rising moisture in the wall.

Different materials are used by developers and construction teams to cover walls. Plaster, timber, and wallpaper are all susceptible to Rising Damp and will show more signs of the damage caused. Additionally, when left untreated for extended periods, rising damp can cause these materials to rot. Often appearing in older buildings, the upward flow can also carry salts and minerals from the groundwater leaving deposits on walls.

What are the early signs of Rising Damp?

Recognising the early warning signs of rising damp is crucial for preserving the integrity of your property. Keep a vigilant eye out for these telltale indicators:

1. Moisture Stains: Look for discolored patches or watermarks along the lower sections of interior walls.
2. Musty Odor: A damp, musty smell in certain areas may indicate rising damp.
3. Flaking Paint/Wallpaper: Excessive moisture can cause paint or wallpaper to blister and peel.
4. Crumbling Plaster: Deteriorating plaster near the base of walls is a clear sign.
5. Salt Deposits: White, powdery salt deposits on the wall’s surface often accompany rising damp.
6. Decay of Wood: Nearby skirting boards or wooden fixtures may exhibit signs of decay or rot.

Early detection followed by Rising Damp treatment services can save you from extensive damage and costly repairs down the line.

Rising Damp Treatment

The process for rising damp treatment, performed by a specialist, is a comprehensive procedure designed to eliminate moisture infiltration and restore the structural integrity of a building.

Here’s a step-by-step overview:

Diagnosis: The process begins with a thorough inspection to confirm the presence and extent of rising damp. Moisture meters and visual assessments are used to identify affected areas.

Removal of Damaged Materials: Any compromised plaster, skirting boards, or wall coverings are carefully removed to prevent further moisture retention.

Moisture Removal: Before any structural work can begin, we first need to ensure all trances of moisture are removed from the affected and surrounding area. We use a dehumidifier until our tools show acceptable conditions ready to work on.

Damp Proof Course (DPC) Installation: A critical step involves creating a barrier against rising damp by installing or repairing the DPC. This typically includes injecting a damp-proofing chemical into the affected walls or replacing the existing DPC.

Replastering: After the source of dampness is addressed, the walls are replastered with waterproof render to provide a protective seal.

Decorative Finish: Once the plaster is dry, the specialist will finish the walls with paint or wallpaper, restoring the aesthetic appeal.

Final Inspection: A final inspection ensures that the rising damp issue has been successfully resolved, and the property is now free from moisture-related problems.

By following these steps, a rising damp specialist effectively treats the issue, leaving your property dry, healthy, and structurally sound.

The negative effects of Rising Damp

Rising damp is not merely a cosmetic concern; it poses significant threats to both the structural integrity of buildings and the health of those who inhabit them. This insidious issue, driven by moisture creeping up from the ground, can wreak havoc on various aspects of a property and the well-being of its occupants.

In this list, we’ll delve into the negative effects of rising damp, shedding light on the potential structural damage it inflicts upon buildings and the health-related challenges it poses to individuals living in damp-infested environments. Understanding these consequences is crucial for taking proactive measures with rising damp treatment services to safeguard both your property and your health.

Negative Effects on Buildings:

1. Structural Damage: Rising damp can compromise the structural integrity of a building. It can cause the decay of timber and masonry, leading to weakened walls, floors, and ceilings.
2. Aesthetic Damage: It often leaves unsightly stains, blistering paint, and crumbling plaster on interior walls, diminishing the overall appearance of a property.
3. Reduced Insulation: Damp walls are less effective at insulating, which can result in higher energy bills as buildings struggle to maintain a comfortable temperature.
4. Mold and Fungal Growth: Rising damp creates ideal conditions for mold and fungi to thrive. These can further damage building materials and release harmful spores into the indoor air.
5. Salt Deposits: Salt deposits left behind by evaporating moisture can erode building materials, including brickwork.

Negative Effects on Health:

1. Respiratory Issues: Mold spores and indoor air pollutants from rising damp can trigger or exacerbate respiratory problems like asthma, allergies, and bronchitis.
2. Skin Conditions: Prolonged exposure to damp environments can lead to skin irritations and conditions like eczema.
3. Allergic Reactions: Individuals may experience allergic reactions to mold, including sneezing, coughing, watery eyes, and skin rashes.
4. Weakened Immune System: Constant exposure to damp and mold can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections.
5. General Discomfort: Living in a damp environment can be uncomfortable and unpleasant, impacting overall quality of life.