The Complete Guide to the Different Types of Damp

Damp inside a building can lead to more than just unpleasant living conditions. If it is not treated urgently and effectively, it can render a property unsafe through mould growth and damage to the building’s structure. However, there are various types of damp that must be treated in different ways, and it is important to know each type in order to deal with them properly. This guide explains how you can identify the most common types of damp.

Rising Damp

Rising damp is moisture that travels up from the ground and into the cracks and pores of walls that are in contact with the soil. That is why the signs of rising damp are typically spotted on ground-level walls, usually less than a metre high. They include white, powdery marks, peeling paint, and damaged skirting boards, often accompanied by a musty smell. It usually results from a missing or defective damp-proof course and is treated by further damp proofing.

Penetrating Damp

Sometimes known as lateral damp, penetrating damp is when water gets into a building through damaged or defective areas, such as cracked walls, broken roof tiles, and unsealed windows. Instead of rising, this type of damp moves horizontally through walls and ceilings and can cause them to appear visibly damp. It can also lead to flaking paint and mould. Effective penetrating damp solutions should always involve identifying and repairing the areas where water is getting in.

Condensation

Condensation is the most common form of damp, and it usually appears in the form of water droplets on windows, walls, and other cool surfaces. It is especially prevalent in poorly ventilated properties and rooms where steam can form, such as kitchens and bathrooms. It is caused by humid air rather than structural faults, but is treatable in minor cases by improving ventilation. This can be done by opening windows, using extractor fans, and letting air circulate.

Plumbing Leaks

Leaking pipes can also cause damp, as well as making wood rot and causing plasterboard to swell. It can be hard to notice the effects until the damage is already at an advanced stage, so it is important to be vigilant. Watch out for unexpected jumps in your water bill and dripping sounds behind walls. Because of the severity of the potential consequences, professional plumbing or damp repair services are usually required to take care of plumbing leaks.

Prevention and Maintenance Tips

Preventing damp is easier than fixing it. Start by ensuring your property is well-ventilated, and make sure that you are opening the windows regularly and using extractor fans when cooking and showering. This helps to remove humid air and prevents it from causing condensation. Regularly inspecting the exterior of your property for signs of wear, especially on the roof and gutters, can help you avoid penetrating damp.

If you are already struggling with damp inside your property and need a more comprehensive solution, get in touch with Damp Proofing Ltd today by phoning 020 7593 8030, and our experts will be happy to help you.