Category: Damp

There are many pleasures to owning a home in London. Its value is likely to increase owing to demand, and there is no need to pay rent to landlords who increase their rent at a moment’s notice. But with it also comes responsibilities and costs of maintenance, which, while it might mean eating into a budget, can work out beneficial rather than leaving a property to decay with age.

It can be quite alarming when finding wood in the home as part of its structure that feels and shows signs of being far drier than it should be and is different to other pieces around the home. When it is the skirting board, the visible signs will also be only too apparent. If in this situation, it is worth thinking about contacting a dry rot specialist near me, as that is what the issue is likely to be. Let us discover what dry rot is, its causes, and how to prevent it.

Its name can be extremely misleading, because although it is called dry rot, it requires a moist atmosphere and damp conditions to thrive. It is caused by the fungus being able to grow and spread in a damp environment, which then attacks the timber, reducing its strength, with the wood becoming brittle and flaky in appearance. The fungus eats away at timber and can cause serious problems if not addressed as soon as possible. That is why it is imperative, when the first possible signs are detected, to contact specialists who will make a rapid diagnosis and provide peace of mind to the homeowner. A dry rot specialist will arrive using the latest high-tech equipment and then be able to deliver an onsite estimate as to the costs of putting things right when it’s a member of the London Damp Proofing team.

If the damp is allowed to spread through walls and masonry, it can lead to serious issues, which are costly and take time to put right, adding inconvenience to the list of things to be avoided, which is why an early assessment is imperative. The possible signs can be detected by those with no previous experience through the musty smell that it leaves, which is not dissimilar to that of mushrooms and is more earthy than that of wet rot.

While dry rot treatment might be the answer, there are things that owners can do to prevent the chances of dry rot. The main one is to control moisture in their home by ensuring any leaks are quickly repaired and that it has proper ventilation. Using moisture-resistant materials is another solution, while carrying out regular inspections is highly recommended, which include making sure that exhaust fans are in good order and guttering is in pristine condition.

It is important to ensure that moisture in the home is kept to acceptable levels to avoid issues such as dry rot, but if there is any sign that it is visible, it is time to speak to the experts on 020 7593 8030.

Living and owning a home in London delivers many of life’s pleasures. It is one of the most exciting cities in the world, which attracts millions of visitors each year, keen to enjoy all that it has to offer. Those with a property can take advantage of the same attractions and ways to spend their time, along with the security of having a property, which is likely to be sought after owing to the demand. However, there are issues to be aware of that require constant attention.

Older properties in the capital can contain damp, as the city is built on clay, which holds water. Many might also begin to show the signs of ageing with cracks in the structure or pointing that needs replacing, allowing water inside. One of the consequent issues can lead to wet rot. In this article we shall explain what exactly wet rot is and how to avoid and deal with it.

The issue of wet rot is caused by fungi which thrive in damp conditions. That is why, at the first sign of damp in the home, it is important to have it assessed and attended to. Simply leaving it can lead to widespread problems, which will be more costly and time-consuming to put right. Penetrating or rising damp can be identified by the usual telltale signs. That might be a musty smell in the home which does not go away, or the discolouration of walls as the damp takes effect. Skirting boards can show signs that they are not in the same condition as before, while moisture and droplets often indicate that there are issues that require dealing with. All of which should be looked at by experts like woodworm treatment specialists near me.

Wood in the skirting boards, along with joists and any other timber in the home, suffers when wet rot gets to work, as it makes it softer and spongier. It can often be detected by touch by a beginner who, if they feel that they may have an issue on their hands, might require wet wall repair. Those in that situation do not need to panic, as you are reading this blog on the website of a family-run business that specialises in all manner of damp and has the right answers waiting at affordable prices so that your property can remain in excellent condition for years to come.

Wet rot treatment will be carried out by experts in a professional manner, who will find the cause and then, quite possibly, replace the wood that is the problem and apply a fungicide to stop it from returning. Of course, the source of the leak and water ingress will also be dealt with so that the issue doesn’t recur, along with the advice to have the woods treated so that they are increasingly protected.

Any homeowner concerned that their property might be affected by wet rot should give us a call immediately by calling 020 7593 8030 so that we can carry out a rapid diagnosis.

While not every homeowner will spot the different types of damp that they think has entered their property, they generally know when something is wrong. The telltale signs are often a clear giveaway, which can include musty smells that are even more noticeable when opening the doors after being out for the day. Damp patches and crumbling plaster are things that should be setting off alarm bells and kickstarting some form of action.

The best way to do this is to get in touch immediately with the company on which this blog appears. We are a family business and a trusted provider who ensures transparency in our pricing. Rather than relying on guesswork, let us carry out a reliable diagnosis using our specialist tools and high-tech equipment to carry out dry rot treatment so that we can identify any problem while it remains manageable. Here in the meantime, is a beginner’s guide to the 5 differences between wet and dry rot for those who think that might be the issue.

1. Both categories of rot require moisture to develop, but different types. In the case of dry rot, it means that higher humidity conditions allow it to thrive without requiring a constant supply of water. Wet rot, on the other hand, simply loves leaking pipes or damaged gutters to supply it with constant moisture, which is an important reminder to carry out regular home inspections to ensure such supplies of water are in pristine condition.
2. Wet rot treatment is nothing to be concerned about when you employ the right team to install it, which, while being affordable, also arrives with an onsite estimate so that our customers can plan their budget and not be left with a huge bill that they must find the cash for. Dry rot spreads through masonry and can often be undetectable to the untrained eye, whereas wet rot is localised and cannot spread through walls and other building materials.
3. The two rots differ slightly in appearance, with wet rot appearing to be more spongy owing to the moisture that it relies on, as well as being darker. Dry rot generally has white edges which surround a brownish mass in the middle. If unsure, seeking qualified advice remains the sensible option.
4. Those who type in basement tanking London during an online search can be provided with the correct remedy to prevent all kinds of damp and rot, which can assist the texture of any affected wood. Dry rot makes timber brittle, whereas wet rot makes it soft.
5. The nose can identify which rot is causing problems, which allows even those experiencing it for the first time a chance to learn. The damp, musty smell is associated with wet rot, with dry rot being a more earthy odour, which may be like that of mushrooms.

If either wet or dry rot is a concern, then please do not hesitate to call 020 7593 8030 so that we can designate one of our team to you promptly.

Finding damp and moisture in the home can be an extreme concern. Buying a property is a huge investment, often meaning that budgets are tight and that any spare cash is required for cost-of-living expenses and to enjoy the rewards of hard work. The thought that it may have to be spent on excessive repairs is a worry. While some may have taken out home insurance, how do those without it deal with the situation?

It might require fixing basement damp and other repair works, and preventative measures put in place, which set the alarm bells ringing. Fortunately, we can set minds at rest as we understand the stress that anyone in such a situation finds themselves in. At London Damp Proofing, we can quickly arrange a rapid diagnosis and guarantee a 30-year warranty on all our work, which provides our customers with added peace of mind. Let’s have a look at what can be done in the meantime.

First, it’s important to know how to identify damp, although there is nothing wrong with booking an appointment with us so that we can make a definite assessment. Signs of rising damp include decaying skirting boards, tide marks on walls, and crumbling plaster. Residents in London in older buildings are particularly prone to rising damp as much of the city is built on clay, with the Thames having many underwater tributaries that many are unaware of. Penetrating damp is caused by water penetrating gaps and leaks and can lead to decaying timber and large marks on walls, especially after a heavy rainfall and as a result, the house smells musty.

Condensation is another cause of the unpleasant smell, which also sees water droplets collecting on sills before going on to cause damage. Peeling paint or plaster is another telltale sign, along with deposits of mould. However, even a novice worried about their predicament can put certain measures in place that help with the situation until our team of experts arrive with their specialised high-tech range of tools and equipment, which might lead to them carrying out interior basement sealing.

Keeping your home well ventilated will certainly help matters so that excessive moisture, mildew, and mould don’t increase. Whenever possible, while remaining secure, it is advised to open windows and doors so that air can circulate and reduce the levels of humidity to create an environment which is also healthier to live in. Installing an extractor fan is a smart move, as is only boiling your kettle when necessary and keeping a lid on the saucepan when cooking, which also improves efficiency. While the basement damp specialists can carry out the big jobs, you, as a homeowner, can help massively. It is also important to remember to maintain the exterior of the home and ensure that everything remains in good working order, which can also reduce bills.

When you call 020 7593 8030, experts in damp will answer, but in the meantime, anyone can reduce the chances of damp spreading through simple measures.

It can be quite a shock, despite it not being uncommon, when someone discovers damp in their home. It is often worry that becomes the overriding emotion, as to the costs and what damage has already been done. This is when the problems begin, as those who have the misguided conception that they might save themselves money get to work with some scheme which is mostly reliant on guesswork, or they simply hope that the problem will disappear.

Of course, the correct solution is in evidence on the website where you are reading this blog. We are a family fun company that understands the stress related to finding damp and therefore offer affordable solutions and the best customer service, starting with a reliable and speedy diagnosis as well as giving an on-site quote to allow you to budget and make proper plans. Until we arrive, sometimes carrying out waterproofing for basements to resolve the issue, here are 4 things that you must avoid doing when you discover damp.

1. Damp and mould are likely to spread in an environment with high levels of moisture. It must be reduced as much as possible until the experts arrive, who will have the perfect solution to ensure the problems don’t recur. One thing that is guaranteed to increase moisture and humidity is drying clothes indoors. It might mean heading to a laundrette until the damp is dealt with or drying them on a line outdoors, but never inside the home.
2. It is amazing just how much a property costs to buy with all the hard work that goes into it, and then owners neglect the importance of maintenance and carrying out regular checks. This can lead to them wondering where the nearest cellar tanking near me is, as extensive works need to be carried out by our qualified and professional team, who will use the latest equipment to put things right. Do not neglect regular inspections.
3. Damp proofing is something else that may be required when a homeowner fails to ventilate their home properly. The importance of this cannot be stressed enough, and it mustn’t be overlooked. Those who always keep doors and windows closed are causing themselves unnecessary problems, which can be expensive to put right. They should always open them whenever possible, while extractor fans provide another solution to ensure that a property does not invite damp.
4. Simply ignoring the buildup of moisture is a foolhardy way to act. It will not go away as if by magic. It requires a professional assessment to see whether rising or penetrating damp is the cause and so that it can be put right, perhaps by installing waterproofing for basements. And while it is a sensible course of action to wipe down any damp spots, this will not cure the problem.

When met by signs of damp and moisture in the home, the first course of action should be to call 020 7593 8030 to allow our expert team to deal with the situation.

Anyone who owns a property is all too aware that it requires constant maintenance so that it continues to rise in value. This rings especially true when in London, where the demand for housing and commercial lets continues to spiral, meaning that those in possession of one have got a fantastic asset on their hands. However, those who neglect their opportunity to secure and comfortable living accommodation can quickly run into problems.

Buildings are prone to ageing and require constant maintenance so that they are not affected by issues such as damage to the structure and its foundations. These are often out of sight, so it pays to go online and key in the words damp specialists London, which might well lead you to our family-run business which is dedicated to finding issues such as mould and damp and dealing with them.

Let us examine the difference between the two of them.

1. The two have very different physical appearances, with damp showing wet and clammy patches on a wall or skirting board, which might lead to the discolouration of a wall or even wallpaper or paint peeling from it. Mould is highly visible through its dark colour, a kind of dark and sometimes murky green, which shows the fungus which thrives in the damp conditions that are provided for it thanks to a moist environment.
2. Fortunately, our team are just a phone call away and contains mould specialists who know exactly how to deal with such problems quickly and efficiently. The smell that comes from damp is musty and most unpleasant, but at least it does offer an early indication that a specialist needs to be contacted to get involved before the problem escalates. Whether it be the result of damp or the slimy patches left by mould, we have the answer that you are looking for.
3. Both mould and damp can have serious health issues if not dealt with, albeit slightly different ones. Respiratory issues and allergies can be the consequence for those who live in a property that contains damp, whereas the allergic reactions and more serious respiratory problems, especially for those with pre-existing conditions, mean it needs to be dealt with fast.
4. Anyone not quite sure what the new stains are in their home can receive a mould survey when they get in touch with us, so that they can relax. The treatment of the two has differences, with damp requiring repairs which provide increased ventilation and mending leaks, with mould needing control of the humidity in the building as well as addressing any damp sources.
5. Whether it be damp, which might require a DPC injection, or mould, both need the earliest intervention so that the issues are dealt with efficiently, which will save both time and money and ensure no inconvenience is suffered.

Preventative work and repairs that have a 30-year guarantee are the best options when finding mould or damp in the home, which is available when calling 020 7593 8030.

Those who are homeowners in London in the modern day have many different things to contend with than those in the same position in a different generation. One thing is for sure. Properties are more in demand than ever before, which means that those who get their hands on them are well advised to ensure that they remain in pristine condition so that their value continues to rise with the market trends and so that they have a real asset on their hands.

Many buildings suffer decay through natural ageing and need more maintenance than a new development. And while those going back a few decades used to deal with increased pollution before the introduction of the fuel emission zone, climate change has brought forward different challenges that require residents to check out damp specialists London online, as we unveil the 5 ways in which the climate has had a huge impact.

1. London is built on clay, which contains high levels of water, and is also on the banks of the Thames. While the Thames Flood Barrier continues to do a sterling job, the chances of flooding continue to increase, and with it, rising damp might enter homes, as water levels continue to rise. Increased rainfall has much to do with this, along with rising sea levels putting pressure on the tidal flow.
2. The climate is like nobody has previously experienced in the capital, with huge storms and much rainfall in the middle of summer, quickly followed by more intense heatwaves, sometimes when they wouldn’t normally be expected. This humid atmosphere affects buildings, which can suffer from penetrating damp as cracks appear, meaning that a tanking system might have to be installed by an expert team.
3. The cooling down after such heat, which is not normal compared to when the properties were built, means that they are more prone to damp than ever. Anyone concerned about the condition of their home and is worried that it has damp can get in touch with our family-friendly company and receive a rapid diagnosis and onsite quote to provide peace of mind. Think damp survey London and give us a shout.
4. The different rainfall patterns keep seasoned meteorologists guessing and shaking their heads in disbelief, but there is no need for you to go through the same agony. Rainfall patterns will continue to cause havoc, but buildings can be protected by the best course of damp proofing, which protects possessions and the maintenance of your home.
5. Coastal erosion is something else worth keeping an eye on, especially those who live along the Thames in Kent and Essex, as it can affect properties and the chances of them requiring treatment for damp, with perhaps owners considering looking for a woodworm treatment company near me when that becomes an issue.

It is important to be aware of climate change and how London properties may be affected, with anyone concerned being able to call 020 7593 8030 to speak to a trusted provider.

It can be the cause of great consternation when a homeowner finds damp inside their property. It is expensive enough to maintain a home and make improvements, so that it is increasingly comfortable to spend time and makes the investment worthwhile. However, damp is not unusual, especially in London, where a lot of it is built on clay. That can result in rising damp causing plenty of problems, along with additional time and costs to put things right.

Other issues might require treating penetrating damp, which is a problem that is created in a completely different way. It is also sometimes described as rain penetration, as it is the weather that causes the issues. Penetrating damp is damp that is caused by water leaking into a building from the outside. It can often be found more commonly in older buildings where the signs of ageing, as well as general wear and tear, create a water ingress. If left untreated, it can cause untold damage to structures, which costs vast sums to put right.

Anyone who has any concerns about penetrating damp in their property should type condensation specialist near me into their search engine to be directed to a professional team that will identify where the condensation is coming from and prevent it from recurring, which stalls any chance of penetrating damp in the affected area. Preventing penetrating damp is hugely important for those who wish to make savings, which can be added to when you choose our family-owned company to deal with the works, which offer an affordable service with transparent pricing and onsite estimates.

Among the causes of penetrating damp are when regular checks aren’t made to see if any tiles might be missing from a roof or gutters might be missing, with downpipes also being damaged. It’s not easy to be able to gain access to find out, which is another reason to choose the services of a specialist team which has the latest high-tech equipment, which might include drones, to be able to identify the problems. That allows a speedy assessment to be made, and repairs concluded as soon as possible, reducing the chance of further damage and protecting property inside the house. It is very easy over time for cracks in the brickwork and masonry to materialise, which also require dealing with, while rendering and pointing work done in the past might not have been up to the required standard and requires replacing.

Drainage systems can easily become blocked, especially in London, where they must withstand excessive use by the huge population. The wrong type of paint, which isn’t breathable, might have been applied to walls which need upgrading, while those properties with wooden joists can benefit from having a timber survey to check for damage. Broken sills left and wanting repairs offer an easy ingress to water, which must be prevented so that problems do not escalate.

Anyone concerned about potential penetration damp can call 020 7593 8030 to receive a rapid diagnosis to ensure the problems are resolved.

It is something that a homeowner can well do without. Extra expense on top of their living costs, utility bills, cash set aside for maintenance and clothes, and some spending money to enjoy themselves. But unfortunately, sometimes the unmistakable truth is that they need to call out a professional team because their property is showing the telltale signs of damp.

It might be that the house smells musty, which greets them when they return home from work, or perhaps there are damp and cold patches on the wall, which are showing signs of discolouration with the wallpaper peeling. Properties in London are especially susceptible to damp because the city is built on clay, which holds water, and can cause widespread problems if not dealt with urgently by experts using the latest high-tech equipment. Here are some pointers as to what customers should look for when choosing which company to carry out the repair and remedial work.

• It is quite concerning that so many who experience such concerns relating to damp put off the work and hope that it goes away. The plain truth is that it will only get worse and cause increasing issues that cost even more to put right and will take far more time because of the neglect being shown. The alternative is to choose a team that provides a 30-year guarantee on their work and understands the concerns of their customers.
• Time is of the essence when it comes to getting repairs carried out. Choosing our family-owned operation ensures that a speedy assessment will be over as quickly as possible, with the best possible solutions being offered. Why worry and have sleepless nights over your concerns when peace of mind can be delivered and the work is done, which might include wet wall repair, with minimum inconvenience to our customers.
• The process will be dealt with professionally if you choose London Damp Proofing, which includes an onsite estimate rather than the drawn-out procedures offered by some of our competitors. Having that instant information allows for timely decisions to be made and our customers to adjust their budget plans wherever necessary, so that they are not met with a bill which is more than they expected.
• Among our experienced team is a condensation expert who is fully qualified and who delivers accurate reports and knows the best solutions to any related issue. We believe in transparent pricing so that our customers know exactly what they are paying for, so we can build trust and loyalty and that no nasty surprises are delivered on the invoice.
• Anyone in any doubt towards what a leading team with expertise in damp proofing can provide should check out its credentials and see what their customers say about the services that they have received, as well as checking out reputable online reviews.

Finding a damp proof company that can be trusted and relied upon is worth its weight in gold when faced with serious issues to a property. Reliability is guaranteed when you call 020 7593 8030.

It is not an unusual feeling for those who have owned for many years to return to it and gradually have their concerns raised as they begin to detect a smell and indications that not all is right. Many decide to ignore the signs. After all, there are times when odours can be smelled in a heavily populated city such as London. However, when they remain for several days, it is time to start doing something about it.

Because London is built on clay and is located on the Thames, there is an awful lot of water underground, which can gradually cause damage out of sight to foundations and then structures. Anyone who finds themselves in a similar situation is strongly advised to get in touch with a professional team such as London Damp Proofing who can provide long-term damp proof solutions. Here are the telltale signs when it becomes time to act.

• As mentioned in the lead paragraph, musty smells are generally an indicator that the property has some form of damp issues. It may be rising damp that emerges from below the surface and can cause widespread damage if not dealt with urgently. Penetrating damp might be an issue because of a leaking room or poorly fitted plumbing or windows, which sees the moisture then meet warmer temperatures and create the unpleasant pong.
• The touch test is often a good indicator as to whether damp is becoming a problem that requires the assistance of a family-owned company that provides 30-year guarantees on its work. They will soon be round to make a full and detailed assessment using the latest tools and technology if wet walls in the house have been detected. The walls may be cold and clammy when felt and certainly require attention.
• While the eyes can sometimes play tricks, especially at night when the lights are turned down low while watching a movie and relaxing on the sofa, once they appear to be discoloured in natural light and wallpaper starts to show signs of peeling, it will almost certainly be caused by damp. Rather than hoping the issue goes away, it is time to get online and find the contact details of a specialist team.
• A further visible clue is when mould starts to form either around the skirting boards or around window frames, as the white paint is overcome by shades of murky dark green. Sometimes it might be nothing too serious, but there is nothing wrong with getting an expert assessment rather than relying on guesswork. Who knows? It might be dry rot treatment that’s required.
• Condensation, which continues to persist, is another telltale sign that things need attending to. It can be caused by excessive moisture levels in the air, which are caused because of damp, which can be resolved by installing new systems.

Our team of professionals with vast experience are waiting to come and check out any damp-related issues to provide affordable peace of mind when you call us on 020 7593 8030.