Damp Proofing

Damp proofing is a term used in construction and refers to a process designed to make foundation walls waterproof and prevent damp and moisture passing through walls, to indoor spaces. Symptoms of damp vary, but will generally be visible by a cold, darkened area on a wall, which may be slightly wet to the touch. There may also be a musty smell and nearby carpets or furnishings may begin to stain as a result.

Without treatment, damp can spread and eventually lead to foundation walls and surrounding decor decaying. It can be started with something as simple as a nail destroying the integrity of an exterior brick and allowing moisture to slowly pass through from outdoors. It can also be caused by poorly installed former damp proof courses (or their entire absence, in older buildings) and damage done through bridging - where floor or ground levels are changed. Damp can build up over periods of years, which is why some causes may not become visible for some time. It can also be more of a problem with stone, brick and mortar - which are porous materials and will allow damp to rise upwards, carrying ground salts which can add to the dampness problem and break down plaster and decor over time.

Caught early however, damp proofing can be applied with excellent results. A damp proofing course will involve a barrier being installed into a wall that resists the rising moisture using a capillary action - preventing what's known as rising damp. It will also have a damp-proof membrane to prevent similar passing damp on solid floors- known as DPM or DPC.

Damp-proofing is best done by an expert, as it isn't an absolute and clear cut diagnosis - a trained technician will carry out tolerance tests, diagnoses and methods tests before diagnosing and recommending a course of treatment. This may involved flexible materials such as plastic sheets or lead and copper to prevent damp, mortar being applied with waterproof properties and compounds, thick continuous spread plastic sheets being laid under floors and rigid materials such as slates or cement being painted with a special bitumen.

A very effective (and cost effective) approach to permanently avoid the problem of damp is to apply an exterior wall system, which is a special, durable exterior paint coating. Companies such as Never Paint Again offer an exterior wall system which is suitable for any type of wall surface, including

•          Stucco
•          Stone
•          Brick
•          Plaster
•          Metal and more

Master builders will treat all surfaces and repair defects before the coating is applied. Different textures are available, from smooth, fine and coarse and the benefits are significant, including:

A stop to condensation build-up in the home Reduced wind chill, leading to lower energy bills Instant prevention of inner and exterior damp on walls Removes the need to repaint walls on an annual basis Installed and applied fully by expert teams, with prior wall fixing for a prepared surface Offers flexibility and an attractive finish, with different finishes and colors on offer

Most importantly, the system works on any type of exterior wall, making it suitable for any home keen to avoid problems with damp.

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