09 Aug Why you need rising damp treatment to damp proof your new home
If you have just gone through the process of buying a new home then you may have encountered the term “rising damp” or “elevated moisture levels” in your Building and Pest Control Report. In this article, we will cover what this means and how to address it.
Your Building and Pest Control Report matters
Building and Pest Control Reports are almost an essential item to have done when purchasing a new home. These comprehensive assessments provide the homeowner with crucial insights into a property’s condition, including potential moisture issues. If your report indicates elevated moisture levels or specifically mentions rising damp, it’s important to take this information seriously.
If your building and pest report comes back highlighting rising damp this means that excessive moisture is present in your home’s lower walls or flooring. This finding shouldn’t be ignored, as it can lead to significant problems down the track. While it might seem daunting, identifying elevated moisture levels early allows you to address the issue, potentially saving you from more extensive and costly repairs in the future.
What Causes Rising Damp?
Rising damp usually occurs when groundwater moves upward through building materials like brick, mortar, or concrete. This movement is due to capillary action, the same process that allows plants to draw water from their roots to their leaves. In buildings, this can happen when there’s no effective damp-proof course (DPC) or when the existing DPC has failed – ultimately leading to a rising damp issue.
Common Causes include:
1. Damaged or missing damp-proof course
2. Lacking or compromised damp-proof moisture barrier under the slab-on-ground
3. Blocked weep holes
4. Leaking pipes or drainage issues
Recognising the Signs
Identifying rising damp early can save your home from potential extensive damage. Here’s what to keep an eye out for:
Visual indicators:
- Damp patches on walls, often up to 1 metre high
- Peeling paint or wallpaper
- Salt stains or “tide marks” on walls
- Damaged skirting boards or plaster
- Damp patches on concrete slabs on the ground
- Lifting floorings such as vinyl planks
- Elevated moisture levels
- Efflorescence/salt deposits
Other sensory signs:
- Musty odour in affected areas
- Walls that feel cold or damp to the touch
Long-term Effects of Rising Damp
If left untreated, high moisture levels can lead to severe consequences:
Structural damage: Prolonged exposure to moisture can weaken building materials, compromising your home’s structural integrity.
Health risks: Dampened environments promote mould growth, which can trigger allergies and respiratory issues.
Aesthetic issues: Extended contact with moisture can cause unsightly stains, peeling finishes, and a general deterioration of your home’s appearance.
Heightened Termite Risk: Termites thrive in moist environments. Elevated moisture levels in building materials, such as wood, can attract termites into your home. The softened wood fibres make it easier for termites to chew through the cellulose.
How Rising Damp Specialists Can Help
When faced with increased levels of moisture in your property, it’s crucial to consult the experts to help you find a damp solution. Waterproofing professionals can:
- Conduct a thorough assessment to determine the extent of the problem
- Identify the root cause of the moisture ingress
- Recommend appropriate treatments
- Implement effective solutions to prevent future issues
Typical treatment methods may include:
- Installing or repairing damp-proof courses
- Injecting a chemical DPC into the brickwork
- Installing damp-proofing systems to treat the affected areas. Our solutions vary as they are tailored to each specific site.
- Improving drainage
Damp proofing is a critical aspect of addressing rising damp. This process involves creating or restoring a barrier that prevents moisture from moving up through your walls. Professional waterproofers use various techniques, including chemical injection, physical damp-proof courses, or waterproofing membrane systems, depending on your home’s specific needs. You can check out one of our recent projects here.
Solutions Offered by Waterstop Solutions, Your Rising Damp Specialists
When it comes to waterproofing your home,Waterstop Solutions stands out as a leader in the field. As experienced damp and water proofers, we offer a range of services tailored to address your specific issues:
- Comprehensive dampness assessments
- Installation of effective damp proofing, physical or chemical DPC
- Remedial waterproofing solutions for basements and below-ground structures
- Ongoing maintenance and prevention strategies
Waterstop Solutions’ team uses cutting-edge technology and proven techniques to ensure long-lasting protection for your home. Our holistic approach not only addresses the immediate problem but also takes preventive measures to help protect your property against future moisture issues.
Taking Action: Your Next Steps
If your Building and Pest Control Report has found elevated moisture levels in your property, don’t panic. Here’s what you should do:
- Review the report thoroughly to understand the extent of the issue.
- Consult with professional remedial water proofers for a detailed assessment.
- Obtain quotes for recommended rising damp treatments.
- Consider the long-term benefits of professional damp proofing.
- Implement the suggested solutions promptly to prevent further damage.
- Follow up with regular maintenance and inspections to ensure the problem doesn’t recur.
Remember, addressing rising damp is an investment in your home’s future. By taking quick action, you’re protecting both your property’s value and your family’s well-being.
Conclusion
Rising damp is a common issue that many new home buyers face, and can be easily treated with the right help. By understanding the causes, recognising the signs, and seeking help from qualified damp and waterproofing experts like Waterstop Solutions, you can effectively address your new home’s moisture problems. Take the first step to tackling your rising damp problem and contact us today.
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