Damp Proof Course – Complete Guide

Generally we have observed the paint falling off from the walls, the reason is always suspicious. We always tried to overcome this by painting the wall again and again however the result is the same. Now the question is how to get rid from this problem?

What is Damp Proofing?

Definitions:

Damp proofing in construction is a protective measure applied to the exterior of building foundation walls.

An application of a water-resisting treatment or material to the surface of a concrete or masonry wall to prevent passage or absorption of water-proofing a masonry surface to retard capillary action and water leaks.

One or more coating of a compound that is impervious to water.

A method used to prevent moisture entering the building.

Source of Damp Proofing

The major source of damp proofing is the rising damp. This allows water to rise up from the ground and into the walls of the building where it can cause water damage. The water along with the salts that are hydroscopic means they attract water. The salt still attracts moisture from the air in to the walls, keeping the walls damp. This damp stays in the walls of a home and mold and fungus will start to grow and can cause health issues. There can be structural damage in the damp walls.

How to get rid from Damp Proofing?

A  damp proof course ( DPC ) is a physical barrier inserted into the fabric of a building to stop water passing from one place to another. This can be on a horizontal plane, stopping water rising up from the ground by being sucked up by the dry masonry above, or vertically to stop water passing from the outside of a building, though the masonry, to the inside. DPC's have taken many forms through the ages and one of the earliest forms was to use a layer of slate in the construction. Slate is still used but the less expensive plastic version is now more widely used.

A horizontal damp proof course is inserted 6 inches above ground level, and used with a damp proof membrane which stops water the water from rising to any part of the ground floor from ground. It is usually a thick plastic strip inserted into the mortar between two courses of bricks or blocks. It can often be seen as a thin plastic line in the mortar near ground level.

In instances where the damp proof course has failed, where there is no damp proof course , or in other cases where the damp proof course has failed, a chemical DPC can be used in damp proofing. One method of doing this is to drill a hole at regular distances in the masonry course and insert the cream. The cream will then form a barrier that can prevent rising damp. We can use this technique however we have to consult with a professional to look at the property just because rising damp is not the only reason for dampness in a property, and repairing the DPC sometimes may not solve the problem.

Read an interesting article regarding DPC Cream here