Category: 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.

Dampness and timber decay are two common yet potentially very destructive property issues. That’s why if you are buying, renovating, or renting out a property, it is essential to have an expert thoroughly inspect the building and produce a damp and timber report. However, experts are not all created equal, and when health and safety are at stake, you want to hire the best you can. Here are the key things to consider before hiring a damp and timber specialist.

The Purpose of the Report

A damp and timber report is sometimes required by mortgage lenders in order to buy a property, and if you don’t know what it is, then it can seem like a large, unnecessary expense. However, it is actually very important for the safety of anybody who will use the property, and it could even save you thousands of pounds in future repair costs. Even homeowners considering renovations should strongly consider having one done.

The report follows a thorough inspection of the property by a qualified specialist, summarising the type and extent of any damp they find, as well as any problems with the property’s wooden structures like woodworm and dry rot. Importantly, it should be a written and signed report, not a verbal one, and it should contain photographic evidence. The surveyor will also typically offer their professional recommendations for treatment.

The Surveyor’s Credentials

A surveyor who is qualified to conduct a damp and timber survey should hold a Certificated Surveyor in Remedial Treatments (CSRT) or Certificated Surveyor of Timber & Dampness in Buildings (CSTDB) qualification from a nationally recognised body like the Property Care Association. For added assurance, you could also look for a surveyor who is a member of a professional organisation like the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. Online reviews and testimonials can be useful sources of information too.

How the Cost is Calculated

Some surveyors offer a fixed price for damp and timber reports, while others adjust the price based on the property size and location. Some also charge extra for photographs, diagrams, and answering follow-up questions, so always make sure you know what is included.

You may come across companies that offer free reports, but these are usually affiliated with damp repair services or companies selling timber treatments. They are incentivised to sell you solutions, so their advice may not be neutral.

How to Prepare Your Property

Both you and the surveyor should want to produce the most accurate report possible as quickly as possible. To help streamline the process, start by making sure the walls and skirting boards are clear and accessible, as well as the loft hatch and space underneath the stairs. You should also ensure good ventilation in the days before the inspection, as this will help the surveyor distinguish between temporary humidity and lingering damp issues.

By spotting issues early and recommending the right treatments, damp and timber reports can save property owners money and ensure that their building is safe and healthy. Call Damp Proofing Ltd on 020 7593 8030 to speak to our surveyors or schedule your damp and timber report today.

London’s historical buildings and diverse architectural styles are central to the city’s charm, but they also mean that damp problems are common. Modern buildings aren’t immune to moisture-related issues either, but fortunately, there is help at hand in the form of damp proofing specialists. This short guide will walk you through how they help London’s property owners, including the common problems that they deal with and the solutions they offer.

Common Damp Problems in London

With famously rainy weather, it is no surprise that many London properties suffer from damp, and there are three main kinds that affect buildings throughout the city. The first is rising damp, which is caused by moisture seeping up from the soil and into the ground-level walls. Next is penetrating damp, which is when water leaks into a property from outside. But condensation, which is caused by poor ventilation, is actually the most common damp problem of all.

If left untreated, all of these types of damp can lead to structural damage, rot, and mould, making properties unpleasant at best and uninhabitable at worst.

What Damp-Proofing Specialists Do

Damp specialists in London provide a comprehensive approach to fixing damp issues. They identify, treat, and prevent damp in buildings, usually beginning the process with a detailed inspection. Once the issue has been diagnosed, they will recommend and implement tailored solutions, like installing a new damp-proof course to tackle rising damp or repairing external walls to prevent penetrating damp. They can also supply dry rot treatment and solutions for other issues that affect timber.

Reputable damp-proofing companies will always guarantee their work, reassuring customers about its quality and durability.

Citywide Coverage and Local Knowledge

Although there are nationwide damp-proofing companies in the UK that will serve London, for the fastest and most effective results it is better to choose a local service. Because they are already based in the city, these tend to offer faster response times, and they also possess in-depth knowledge about the different types of buildings in London, how damp affects them, and local planning regulations and building standards.

Local firms also have more at stake in terms of their reputation. They are often reliant on word-of-mouth recommendations within the local community, so it is important for them to deliver top-quality work in order to stay in business.

When to Contact a Specialist

The earlier you identify and treat damp, the easier and more affordable the job will be. Common signs of damp problems that you should look out for include peeling paint, swollen plaster, wet walls in the house, mould, and musty smells. If any of these things are present, do not hesitate to get a professional opinion. Also check any exposed timber in your home. If this feels soft or crumbly, there could be an underlying issue that requires treatment.

London properties are some of the most valuable in the world, and in order to keep them that way it’s important to take damp seriously. If you see signs of damp in your London property, contact Damp Proofing Ltd on 020 7593 8030 to speak to a highly qualified local damp-proofing service.

Basements can provide valuable extra storage or living space for a home, but being positioned below ground level makes them vulnerable to water ingress, dampness, and flooding. Proper waterproofing is essential to stop issues like these from causing mould or compromising the structural integrity of your home. Tanking and Sika rendering are two proven methods for waterproofing basements, and this short guide will explain how they work, what is different about them, and what their benefits are.

How Does Water Enter Basements?

Let’s start by understanding the problems that tanking and Sika rendering solve. When it rains or snows, water seeps below the surface of the ground, saturating the soil. This results in pressure being exerted on the walls and floors of basements, which are surrounded by soil. If there are weaknesses in those surfaces, such as cracks or porous concrete, the pressure can force water into them, until it eventually emerges on the inside of the basement.

Basement waterproofing methods like tanking and Sika rendering work by providing a barrier against this water pressure.

What Is Tanking?

Water tanks and fish tanks are spaces surrounded by nonporous walls, and tanking your basement is essentially the process of turning it into something similar. The main difference is that water will be kept out and not in. It is performed by applying an adhesive barrier layer onto the basement’s walls, either internally or externally. Sealing basement walls in this way prevents water from being able to pass through, allowing your basement to stay warm and dry.

One of the biggest advantages of basement tanking is that it is very durable. A correctly installed tanking system typically lasts between 20 and 50 years, but even this could be extended with proper drainage and maintenance.

What is Sika Rendering?

Sika rendering also involves creating a barrier between the water in the soil and the interior of the basement. What makes it different is that the barrier is specifically created using products by the chemical company Sika. These products are favoured for their highly effective water resistance and excellent bonding strength. They can adhere strongly to many different surfaces, even old and uneven ones. They also tend not to crack or shrink when buildings move over time.

Which Is Better?

Whether you should choose tanking or Sika rendering depends on your budget and the qualities of your basement. Because tanking usually only involves applying a single layer of protection, it is usually the more affordable option of the two. Sika rendering involves applying several layers of protection, and it tends to have better results with old and uneven surfaces than tanking. You can also use a mixed approach, such as using Sika rendering on the walls and tanking the floor.

Tanking and Sika rendering are both highly effective methods of protecting basements against water ingress. However, it is critical that they be applied correctly. Call Damp Proofing Ltd on 020 7593 8030 to have your tanking or Sika rendering done by professionals with years of experience.

Having the security of owning a home can offer great peace of mind and allow plans to be made. This is especially true in London, where property prices continue to spiral through the roof owing to large demand. Therefore, once an owner, it makes a great deal of sense to ensure that it is maintained regularly so that it retains its value and is comfortable and safe to live in.

Those who have owned the property for many years should remember that, in the same way that they grow older and don’t function quite as efficiently as they once did, neither does their home. Because much of the capital stands on clay, which holds water, there is added responsibility to ensure that everything is working as it should, and no other issues, such as woodworm, raise their head. Here we look at 5 important ways to deal with woodworm in the home.

1. Wood boring beetles, which bury themselves in timber, love damp conditions and high levels of moisture. Therefore, any signs of damp must be dealt with as soon as possible by giving us a call so that we can carry out a damp repair service to stop the issue from spreading. Keeping the levels of humidity low is a step in the right direction, which can be assisted by increased and improved ventilation as well as using dehumidifiers.
2. Before the experts call round to get to the root of the problem, it is important to throw away any infested furniture or at least move it outdoors until it can be inspected. As a family-operated business, we understand the emotional pull that some items and heirlooms provide, so we will be sympathetic in any treatment and work carried out, so we do not cause inconvenience while reducing stress by getting things done as soon as possible.
3. Woodworm treatment is important to have in place, which is likely to include using the latest tools and equipment that offer us an advantage over many of our competitors. Proper ventilation is something that will be put in place so that the breeding ground of the woodworm is eliminated in any areas that are likely to be prone to a buildup of moisture.
4. There are other ways that the situation can be resolved so that woodworms are shown the door. That might include advice regarding using wood preservatives to offer adequate protection, with new wood being given an extra layer of protection to assist in its longevity. Dealing with damp properly remains the best option on most occasions.
5. It might require a woodworm survey to get to the root of a problem, but that’s not a problem. We will carry it out quickly and efficiently, while recommending that any new wooden furniture and accessories that are purchased be checked thoroughly to make sure they are clear of any such issues.

Anyone experiencing doubts and concerns regarding woodworm can have their worries dealt with when you call us on 020 7593 8030.

There are many joys attached to owning a property. It might have been bought to live in, knowing that its value is only likely to increase owing to the demand for housing in London. Those who buy a building to operate a business no longer must pay rent to a landlord, which can mean making a profit is extremely difficult. Bricks and mortar remain just as good an investment as ever.

Of course, there are still repayments to be made if the property hasn’t been paid for in one instalment, as well as the overheads for its maintenance, which are highly recommended to keep it in pristine condition as much as possible. While London is undoubtedly the place to do business, it is built on clay which has come up the Thames over the centuries. This means that occasionally, rising damp treatment will be required. Here are 5 reasons to call out our expert team if you suspect your building has rising damp.

1. There is a chance the situation may already have led to structural damage to a property that will be expensive to put right if it is allowed to escalate. If in any doubt, call out the professionals who use their state-of-the-art tools and equipment to make an accurate assessment and then recommend the correct preventative action after putting things right so that structural components like beams and joists aren’t in danger of huge damage being incurred.
2. Damp repair services can be invaluable, so when they are available, it is prudent to take advantage of them. Those who fail to do so and allow rising damp to spread in their property are leaving themselves open to health risks, to them and those who use the building. The damp can escalate issues for those with allergies while creating a dangerous environment for those with respiratory conditions.
3. While there are various ways in which to identify rising damp, it is a far better approach to allow our team to come out and assess the situation. Because our team have vast experience, they know exactly what they are looking for and how to solve it, which makes more sense than relying on guesswork.
4. There can be things that become obvious that something isn’t quite right, be it through sight or smell. Those who enter mould survey London into their search engine will be directed in the right direction to receive the correct diagnosis, which will prevent expensive repairs later and the disruption caused by them.
5. Having the best equipment, skills, and tools for the job means that it will be done correctly and may include the installation of the right damp-proof course or providing increased ventilation, which is another way of preventing rising damp so that a healthy daily life can be enjoyed.

Rising damp can cause huge problems both to the structure of a building and the health of those who inhabit it. This can be resolved easily by calling the experts on 020 7593 8030.

London is a magnificent city in which to live, providing many opportunities to follow a successful career as well as enjoy the many attractions and different forms of entertainment that are readily available. It is little wonder that people head there from different locations to purchase a home and secure their future. However, with it comes one or two things which are worthy of consideration.

The capital stands on the Thames, a tidal estuary that flows into the North Sea. Much of the surface of the city, especially those areas near the river and its many underground tributaries, consists of London clay, which, due to its consistency, holds water. That can cause problems, particularly in older properties that begin to show signs of ageing and require rising damp treatment to ensure that they remain in habitable condition without the chance of hygiene issues materialising.

Rising damp, which, as the name suggests, rises from the earth and into a building, can create serious issues if not corrected. There are many ways that even those without prior knowledge can identify, as we shall now discover.

What is described as a tide mark becomes apparent when rising damp starts to get inside a building, which sees the discolouration of walls with a wavy pattern, signifying how high the damp has risen. This can lead to the peeling of wallpaper or paint starting to come off and changing colour. Skirting boards are often a good indicator of rising damp as they start to deteriorate and even rot, the signs of which are most apparent. As with any sign of damp, the rising variety means that the house smells musty.

Fortunately, any homeowner who identifies rising damp can get in touch with us for an immediate survey in which our professional team will use specialist high-tech equipment to identify any issues and then recommend the best course of action. Because we are a family-owned company, we understand the importance of providing an affordable service with our work coming with a 30-year guarantee. We also appreciate that everyday family life can do with as little disruption as possible, so we ensure that our customers are not inconvenienced.

Much of the cause of rising damp is that London is located by the river, which can affect the foundations of structures when water starts to get into them. We are acknowledged among the leading damp specialists London has to offer, because we understand our city and use our experience to find the best solutions, as our knowledge of geology sets us apart from the rest.

We resolve the mould smell in the house caused by rising damp by putting the correct measures in place, which will resolve the issue and prevent it from recurring. This might involve the use of enhanced ventilation and improving the drainage of the property. Installing and maintaining a reliable damp-proof course often provides the answer.

If you suspect your property may have rising damp issues, get in touch immediately by calling 020 7593 8030.

Purchasing a home is something that costs a great deal of money, as well as the emotional investment that comes with it. Therefore, it is natural for any homeowner to want to keep it in as perfect condition as possible to increase the enjoyment of living there and so that maximum comfort allows for total relaxation.

Regular maintenance is one way of ensuring that the property remains in pristine condition, but what about the times when you have a nagging doubt that the building might contain damp? Here are 8 ways to carry out a damp inspection.

1. Often, damp is clearly visible. Therefore, having a close look at the walls and floors, even lifting a carpet, if necessary, is likely to reveal whether there are any problems to be concerned about. Damp patches, mould, or the discolouration of surfaces are clear signs for which external damp proofing might provide the solution, which we can provide.
2. The nose is often as good an indicator as the eyes, with damp quickly being smelt through the mustiness that can be all too familiar. Basements and bathrooms can be particularly prone to such smells.
3. If there are visible signs that something might be wrong, along with not everything smelling as it should around the home, then another good way to detect damp is by feeling for it. It can either provide a wet or cool sensation to the skin, which should set alarm bells ringing, and a basement damp assessment to be arranged through us.
4. For those who are increasingly concerned, it is possible to purchase a moisture metre in a store or to order one online. While these have the benefit of providing a certain amount of peace of mind, they are nothing in comparison to making an appointment to have professionals assess the situation.
5. We can provide a wide range of services when it comes to anything damp-related, but there is nothing wrong with you as a homeowner carrying out an initial external inspection to check if there are any issues relating to the gutters. But please do so safely!
6. Checking windows and glass surfaces for the signs of damp is a good idea. If any are found, then it is advised to call us immediately to arrange for a full condensation survey to be carried out so that preventative measures can be put in place.
7. It’s never a bad idea to keep track of any issues that have occurred in the past and log them down. Any areas that have caused previous concern can be revisited regularly to ensure that there is no recurrence.
8. Of course, by far the best way to ensure that inspections are carried out to the highest make an appointment with the experts so that we can deal with the job efficiently and affordably, while we also provide a 30-year guarantee on all our work.

To take advantage of top service and the excellent value we provide, call 020 7593 8030 to prevent damp in your home.

There are many reasons that the popularity of basement properties continues to grow in London. Finding anywhere that provides plenty of space for comfortable living accommodation can be sometimes difficult, and indeed expensive. Those who decide that a basement is their best option know that they are likely to be provided with plenty of space to enjoy.

This is even more likely when making the informed decision to get in touch with the experts who provide the best basement waterproofing London can provide, which comes with a 30-year guarantee. The other advantage of owning a basement property is the privacy that comes with it, with most having a separate entrance where mail and deliveries can go without the chance of them going missing when left in an entrance used by multiple flats.

However, one drawback can be flooding. While measures such as basement moisture control can be put in place, flooding is something that can cause distress. It can occur in various ways, often starting with problems with the foundations of a building. If anyone feels concerned as to the age and condition of their building, they are advised to get in touch with us immediately so that an assessment can be made and the best possible solutions can be discussed and arranged. As damp proofing specialists, we can provide ways to ensure that the basement is secure and that no further damage ensues after works are completed.

Poor plumbing or pipes that have aged naturally are other causes of basement flooding, which can be arranged to be sorted, along with faulty drainage, providing another common issue, particularly in older buildings. Sewer backups can not only cause unpleasant smells but also huge problems, leading to flooding, as is the case when encountering clogged gutters and downspouts. Fortunately, help is at hand to deal with any of these issues once you get in touch with us so that we can provide the best possible service as soon as possible to ease your peace of mind.

The cures are wide-ranging for preventing flooding from occurring. Sealing basement walls is one of them, so that the water does not seep through and cause extensive damage, which can be costly and time-consuming to put right, not to mention the inconvenience that it will cause. Nobody wants to be flooded out and then need to look for alternative accommodation on top of the awful odour that damp also delivers. Our team can prevent all of that from happening.

Waterproofing for basements is another option that we can provide after inspecting and repairing any of the root causes. A full inspection from professionals ensures that the job will be completed properly, on time, and to the agreed price, with the extended guarantee adding further value for money. Rather than paying for continual repair bills, it makes far more sense to choose an affordable option which saves further time and money.

Whenever damp or possible flooding is an issue, call 020 7593 8030 immediately so that we can sort out the problem.

Rising damp can affect any property. It doesn’t matter whether you live in a semi-detached house or you own a commercial site, rising damp doesn’t care. It is true that the older the building, the more likely it is to see this kind of problem, but new buildings are not exempt. When it comes to preventing and treating rising damp, what can be done? These strategies for builders will make everything clear.

Why Are Older Properties More Susceptible To Rising Damp?

Older properties, for instance, period ones or pre-war builds, are more likely to see rising damp issues inside their walls. This is because when these buildings were constructed, the knowledge, application, and technology were not yet advanced enough to provide long-lasting solutions, and therefore, decades later, the damage has taken hold.

Spotting Rising Damp on Internal Walls

The first step to figuring out what to do includes understanding what the warning signs and symptoms are. Spotting rising damp on internal walls is both easy and misleading at the same time. This is because it can be misdiagnosed for other types of water damage, therefore the information must be correct before starting treatment. Our team can help with this by providing a home visit and site survey. The major signs to watch out for are explored in more detail here.

Visible Water

If you notice any visible patches of moisture on your wall coming up from the ground and reaching about 1 metre in height, then this is a big sign that the problem is rising damp.

The Smell

It is also very easy to smell rising damp as soon as you walk through the front door of a property. It will be distinctly musty and unpleasant and it is not a smell you want sticking around.

Damage to Décor

Whether it is peeling wallpaper or bubbling plaster, the cosmetic damage of rising damp is unmissable. You might notice that your wall is wet to the touch and your paint is flaking or bubbling. This will impact the plaster underneath, and when this starts happening you can’t ignore the problem any longer.

Mould Spots

Black mould is a common type of household mould that can show up on any property. However, those homes with rising damp problems will experience black mould at some point if the problem goes untreated. This is extremely dangerous for your health and can be difficult to clean and stop.

External Wall Rising Damp Signs

If your external wall is also suffering, which is likely if you have spotted signs inside, here’s what you might notice.

• The wall is wet to the touch.
• There are noticeable dark spots where moisture has taken hold.
• Salt marks

Treating Rising Damp Internally

There are a few methods for homeowners to explore regarding rising damp. This is not a problem that will go away of its own accord, and it can (and will) cause extensive damage to the structural integrity and very foundation of your property if you don’t invest in treatment pathways.

Procuring a Survey

The first step is to call our team and book a site survey. This survey will show exactly how far the damage goes and determine the best path to take to rectify it. Surveys are useful because, without them, there is no real way to tell what needs to happen to fix the walls of the building.

Stripping Back The Wall

When rising damp is noted, then stripping the wall back to the bare frame will be required. This means taking off the wallpaper and the plaster so the damage underneath is visible. This is where any treatment will take place, so it is unavoidable.

DPC Injection Courses

DPC injection courses are the most common route for building owners to take to protect their assets and get back to normality. It is important to have this job done by a fully licensed professional because, without that guarantee, you just don’t know what you’re signing up for. Once qualifications have been verified, a DPC course will take around two days for a smaller area and anything up to a week (or longer) for a bigger space. For example, if you need damp proofing in three big rooms then it could take a few weeks for the job to complete.

Effectiveness

How effective are these courses? The answer is, very! As long as a full site survey has been undertaken and the extent of the damp is observed, a comprehensive professional course should do the trick.

Steps to Take Post-Treatment

After the damp proofing course is complete, it is typical to need to wait a set period before you can redecorate. While this may be frustrating, it is necessary to ensure that the proofing is completely viable and that all the moisture has evaporated from the walls. Decorating too soon is a waste of time. Once this waiting period has been observed, you can paint the walls. The proofing course, if done professionally, should stand the test of time.

The Consequences of Ignoring Rising Damp

If you ignore rising damp then there are a few things that are likely to happen. Firstly, you will never be able to decorate properly and therefore the aesthetic of your room will be impacted negatively. For instance, peeling wallpaper and paint that bubbles or doesn’t ever go on properly are two of the biggest ones. Secondly, it will compromise the structural capacity of your property so the problem will continue to worsen over time and it will become a bigger job the longer it is left. Bricks may crumble and parts of your home could need re-strengthening. So it makes sense to get the job done as early as possible, which means as soon as you spot any signs.

Treating rising damp in properties is easy with a DPC. It is impossible to do without expert guidance and input, and our team is here to help. Homes that have rising damp need special attention as soon as possible to avoid further damage, so don’t delay.