Dampness

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DAMPNESS

 Structural dampness is the presence of unwanted moisture in the


structure of a building, either the result of intrusion from outside or
condensation from within the structure.
 A high proportion of damp problems in buildings are caused by
ambient climate dependent factors of condensation and rain penetration.
 Types of dampness
I. Penetrating Damp
II. Rising Damp
III. Condensation
Penetrating Damp
Penetrating Damp - Penetrating damp is caused by water leaking through the
walls.

What are the causes of penetrating damp:

• Different types of building defects - including overflowing gutters, leaking


or blocked pipes, damaged pointing and flashing, dilapidated or poorly
installed windows and missing roof tiles.
• Porous walls – ageing bricks lose their ability to keep out rain penetration
while cracks in external render allow problematic water ingress.
• Spalled bricks and degraded mortar – damage to brickwork can allow water
to penetrate into your home.
To get rid of the damp you need to work out what is causing it :

• Blocked or damaged Guttering - Very often the source of penetrating damp problems.  
 Simply repair or unblock the gutters and downpipes.
• Dilapidated or Damaged Windows - Check window sills to make sure the drip grooves
are not blocked as these can be susceptible to a build-up of dirt and moss. If found to be
blocked, make sure to clean them thoroughly.
• Roof Damage - If you have the expertise and competency then replace missing or
cracked tiles. If the Chimney flashing is loose then it will have to be refitted or replaced.
• Cracked Render - If the render is damaged water will penetrate through, if possible
small cracks should be patched with new render or sealant.
• Porous bricks - if they have become porous and allow water ingress then they need to
be removed and replaced or you apply a solution that will help waterproof the brick.
Rising Damp
 Rising damp is a relatively rare form of damp that affects the walls of buildings.
 It occurs when moisture from the ground travels up through the walls by capillary
action.
 This means that ground water is effectively sucked up through tiny tubes in the
bricks, like a series of straws. This water contains salts that also travel up through
the wall.
 Around the affected wall, you get other porous building materials such as
plasterwork and the timber found in the floor boards.
To get rid of the damp you need to work out
what is causing it :
 Firstly, check that your house has a damp-proof course or membrane. You
will need an expert to tell you whether you do have one.
 The most effective and economical way to treat rising damp is with
a damp proofing injection cream. You can choose between complete kits
or individual cartridges of cream
 The cream is injected or hand-pumped into specially-positioned holes in
the mortar course.
Condensation
Condensation damp is caused by moist air condensing on walls.
 Warm & moist air comes into contact with a cold surface such as the walls, and
the air can’t hold the moisture, causing drops of water to appear and causing mold
on your walls.
To get rid of the damp you need to work out
what is causing it :

Wipe down windows and sills every morning.


Deal with steam from cooking.
Get rid of bathroom moisture.
Keep your house warm.
Buy a dehumidifier.
Don't hang clothes to dry inside.

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