Rising Damp Treatment
Rising damp is the upwards absorption of groundwater through a porous wall by a process called capillarity. The severity of Rising damp is dependent on the level of groundwater, the pore composition of the masonry materials used in the structure and the rate at which moisture evaporates from the wall. The effects of rising damp on a building include: Causing damage to decorations like blisters to paints and the decay of plaster; the destruction of the buildings micro-structure by the ground salts that rises with the moisture causing loss of structural integrity and some health challenges like rheumatism and colds for occupants of the building.
About Penetrative Damp
Damp Overview
Penetrative damp is caused by water infiltrating a building or property through the external wall, defective pointing, roof, cracks or underground area of a building. Though it is commonly noticed in older buildings, it can also affect modern buildings with poor drainage system or defective masonry. It occurs when there is a defect in the building like leaking roof, leaking water pipe, poorly constructed gutter channels, holes in the chimney and also when the external walls of a property have degraded thereby allowing water to penetrate from the wall into the building. This problem is also common in poor cavity wall construction where cavity wall insulation has been poorly installed or walls that are not suitable for cavity wall insulation used in the installation process. This damp is usually common if you live in an area that experiences heavy rainfall.
Common Signs Of Penetrating Damp:
Watermarks
Water marks on walls, ceilings, cabinets, carpets are all signs you are dealing with Penetrative damp. If the stain has dark spots, know that the damage is still fresh but if it brown or chalky, then it is older damage usually caused by excess moisture.
Blistering Plaster
when the inside of a wall gets wet and expand, it is usually accompanied by blistering plaster, peeling paint or wallpaper. This shows that there is a problem which should be fixed as soon as possible.
Presence of mold
Mold can’t grow without moisture, as long as areas in your home remain wet molds are bound to grow. This is usually a problem noticed where we have Penetrative damp.
Damaged interior
If your interior decorations become damp and has water stains, know that you have the problem of penetrating damp in your hands.
Damp or Musty odor
Damp or musty odor is another of the sign of Penetrative damp. The smell is often similar to winter sweaters that have been packed away fo
Rotting floor timbers
If your floor timber is wet and rotting away, it means there’s a problem of penetrating damp around.
Condensation Problems
Research has shown that condensation is widespread in the UK, and probably one of the major reason for dampness. Condensation is a natural process whereby warm vapour in the air turn into water as the vapour touches surfaces of colder temperature. Though the vapour is directly related to our everyday activities, proper ventilation will greatly increase the chances of condensation within the house. Poor ventilation is therefore the main reason for condensation damp and its attendant problems. As we continue to insulate our buildings to keep warm, we unfortunately also trap water vapour that will eventually lead to condensation and ultimately dampness if not checked. While we may not avoid such activities as cooking, bathing and washing, the adverse effects of condensation damp like health challenges and mould growth may require the involvement of professionals, especially in persistent situations.
In minor cases, condensation can be reduced by reducing some activities that release water vapour into the air as well as allowing fresh air into the house, thereby allowing the vapour escape out of the building. While this may look simple, implementation may be a challenge. First, vapour releasing activities include such things as mere breathing and other basic activities that support living. Secondly, ventilation is consequent upon the structural design, weather conditions and a lot more.