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Rising Damp
Check that the walls are not suffering from rising damp, also ensure that there is a damp proof course in the wall and that it has not been bridged or damaged. If signs of rising damp are prominent then a new damp proof course should be installed. This can be done by using DIY damp proofing cream which is simply injected into the existing mortar course. Check that the damp proof course is at least 150mm above the external ground level to avoid heavy rain from bouncing back up and soaking the brick work above the damp proof course. If the external level is less than 150mm below the damp proof course consider either lowering the external level or treating damp with an external water repellent.
Penetrating Damp
Check that the walls are not suffering from penetrating damp, normally caused by driven rain being absorbed by the substrate and transferred to internal walls. This can occur at any height in a property and can be either a local problem or it can affect the whole house. Treating damp penetrating into the substrate can easily be achieved by using external water repellents on the external surface. These damp control products do not affect the surface texture or finish so once applied will not be visible but will protect the property against penetrating damp.Damp Proof Membranes
Check solid floors to ensure that damp is not coming up through the floor, if it is, then it is likely that the damp proof membrane underneath has either failed or was not installed. Potentially this a large job to dig up the floor and replace the damp proof membrane. There are now epoxy liquid membranes that if installed to the specification will create a new damp proof membrane on the surface to stop any damp from affecting any new floor covering that is installed.
Roof
Check the roof, make sure that it is sound and directing rain into the guttering, not into the structure of the building. Also check the guttering and down pipes, make sure that they are carrying the water away and that there are no damaged/blocked guttering or drainpipes overflowing or leaking causing the external wall to become soaking wet and prone to penetrating damp.Condensation
Condensation is generally noticeable where it forms on non-absorbent surfaces (i.e. windows or tiles) but it can form on any surface and it may not be noticed until mould growth or rotting of material occurs. Condensation can be treated with ventilation systems that either help damp control in local areas or help with complete house damp control.
At YouCantGoWrong.com we aim to provide you with a large range of products for DIY damp proofing, treating damp and general damp control products. If you require any help or advice please feel free to contact our technical helpline on 0845 604 6225 and we’ll be pleased to help you.