If you’ve just bought a new property and have been warned by the building surveyors that it could contain areas of damp that may need addressing, you’ve probably already started to research the solutions available to you. Even so, understanding exactly how to damp proof your walls can be a rather laborious task, and with that in mind I’ve written this short article in an attempt to explain the process in layman’s terms.
So, take a quick read down this page and hopefully you’ll pick up some useful information that could well make your life that little bit easier.
Okay, but what is Rising Damp?
First aired in 1974, Rising Damp was a British sitcom written by Eric Chappell and starring Leonard Rossiter (sorry, wrong article).
Rising damp is a term used for the upwards movement of groundwater through exterior masonry walls. The water tends to rise through pores in your brickwork and the process is referred to as capillarity - an electrochemical event that sees water molecules drawn towards mineral items.
So, how do I damp proof the walls in my home?
Generally there are two main techniques used to achieve this. The first is a barrier which is usually laid down along the length of a bed joint during the construction of a building, though it can be applied later, especially if you’re doing a full renovation.
The second method involves the use of a remedial chemical which can be applied by trade professionals, qualified builders or even the DIY enthusiasts amongst you - so this is probably your best option for the moment.
Where should I install the chemical proofing?
Though you might think it’s smart to use chemical proofing around the lowest points of your home, in truth this isn’t recommended. In fact, you might surprised to learn that in accordance with the latest 2005 regulations, chemical proofing should be sited at least 150mm above ground level and beneath ground floor joists, not around the base of your property.
Can I really do this myself?
If you’re having to ask that question then the answer is probably “no”. Although seasoned DIYers shouldn’t encounter too many problems completing this task, you may wish to look online for assistance if you’re less than sure about how to go about it. So if you’re looking for damp proofing services, the internet is your most valuable tool, so use it wisely and find the right firm to help you.
So there you have it my friends, that was damp proofing in a layman’s nutshell. Hopefully now you understand the process a little more which should make it far easier to make the right choices. The job itself needn’t take forever and can usually be completed in only a couple of days, so don’t stress too much about the expense of paying professionals if you don’t think you can handle it yourself.
I wish you the best of luck, whatever you choose to do!
Image: Mark
Recent Comments