Damp walls ruin more than just the look of your home. They weaken the building’s structure and lead to mold and mildew growth. Whether it’s small or large-scale damage, addressing damp issues quickly is important to prevent structural issues and health problems caused by mold.
Various damp proofing solutions can be followed to keep walls dry and protected. For different issues, there are different solutions and it’s important to choose the right method to prevent damage and costly repairs.
Understanding the Causes of Damp
Before choosing any waterproofing solution, it’s important to first identify what’s causing the problem. Usually, dampness in walls falls under three categories, rising damp, penetration damp and condensation. Rising damp occurs when moisture from the ground travels upward through walls, this usually happens if the walls haven’t been waterproofed.
Penetrating damp happens when external water seeps in through cracks, porous walls and faulty roofing, causing localized damp patches. Condensation happens in homes that have poor ventilation, it occurs when warm air comes into contact with cold surfaces causing moisture buildup. Each of these types of damp needs different treatment, thus it’s important to diagnose it correctly and choose a treatment accordingly.
Damp Proof Course (DPC)
For rising damp issues, one of the most effective solutions is installing a Damp Proof Course (DPC). In this, a waterproof barrier is created to prevent moisture from traveling up through walls. These days, a DPC is installed in homes using a physical barrier like plastic or slate during the construction phase.
However, chemical injections can be used for older buildings in which no DPC was installed initially. These injections help fill the small gaps in the masonry with a water-resistant solution, creating a protective layer that blocks moisture.
Basement Waterproofing
Basements are more prone to dampness as they are located underground. Many times moisture from the soil seeps through walls and floors causing dampness. This is why basement waterproofing is important to prevent water damage.
There are various methods of basement waterproofing, one of them is installing damp-proof membranes. In this thick plastic sheets are put up to create a barrier, preventing moisture from penetrating through walls and floors. Another method is tanking systems in which a waterproof slurry is applied to inside walls for extra protection against water seepage.
Waterproof Coatings and Sealants
For those dealing with smaller damp problems, waterproof paints and sealants can offer a temporary protective layer. These coatings are directly applied to walls to create a barrier for preventing water seepage and moisture buildup.
While waterproof paints are effective on mild cases of penetrating damp, it’s important to remember that they are not a permanent solution if the underlying problem isn’t addressed. If moisture issues persist, it’s necessary to find a more comprehensive damp-proofing solution.
Ventilation and Condensation Control
Condensation is a very common cause of dampness, especially in kitchens, bathrooms and basements. It happens when warm indoor air comes into contact with cold surfaces causing moisture to collect, leading to damp walls and mold growth.
By improving ventilation in the home, condensation-related damp problems can be reduced. Using dehumidifiers and extractor fans can help maintain good air circulation, keeping moisture levels under control.
External Waterproofing
If damp issues are caused by water penetration from the outside, external waterproofing can be an effective measure. By applying a water-repellent coating to brickwork you can prevent rainwater from seeping into walls while letting moisture inside the home escape.
This technique is especially useful in areas that face heavy rainfall and in older buildings that have porous brickwork. However, before applying any waterproof coating, it’s important to first check and fix cracks and any structural damage that may be contributing to the damp problem.
Ask for Professional Help
To make the right decision for your home, you must first work towards identifying the specific issue that is causing the dampness. If you are unable to figure out the problem by yourself, it’s best to contact a professional waterproofing company for help. They can help you assess the problem and provide the most effective solutions for your property.
