Damp Proofing
- Treatments and remedial works for all types of dampness affecting buildings
- Rising damp, penetrating damp, condensation control, waterproofing
- All surveys and reports carried out by Certified Surveyor in Remedial Treatments (CSRT) with treatments carried out by a trained Technician and skilled craftsmen
- Fully trained and qualified through the BWPDA/PCA
Rising Damp
Rising dampness usually affects older buildings to some degree or another. Moisture from the ground is drawn upwards through the tiny capillaries that exist in the mortar and brickwork. As dampness rises it brings with it hygroscopic and efflorescent salts from the ground which rise up and remain within the wall even after dampness has been controlled or evaporated. Efflorescent salts stain the surface of the wall whereas hygroscopic salts are not visible but draw moisture from the air and give the appearance of dampness even after rising damp has ceased causing further damage to plasterwork and decorations.
Hygroscopic Salts
Chlorides and nitrates are hygroscopic which means that they attract moisture from the air and appear as damp patches on wall surfaces.
 These are common where a wall has suffered rising damp and also on chimney breasts where they exist as the result of the burning of fossil fuels. On chimney breasts they can be mistaken for rising on penetrating damp and can be dealt with by using the correct replastering system.
Chemical Injection
Once rising damp has been diagnosed it can be treated in a number of ways with the preferred method being hand-gun injection. A silicon based chemical is injected through drill holes in the mortar line in accordance with BS6576:2005. The chemical is a pore liner and repels water within the brick and mortar.
Replastering
A cement based replastering system is required after treatment of damp. The same system is required for dealing with hygroscopic salts. A standard plaster can be used for finish or dry lining.
Membranes
Wall membranes can also be used as a solution to providing a sound dry surface. Although their main use is below ground, they can also be used in special circumstances above ground with a wet plaster or a dry lined finish.
Condensation Control
Usually a winter problem and often confused with other types of damp, condensation can be remedied with the use of ventilation systems. See the Electrical section for further details.
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