Rising Damp
WHAT IS RISING DAMP?
Most people associate rising damp with water, but moisture (not water) is the key to understanding rising damp.
Here is why. The ground is always moist. Brickwork is naturally porous and absorbent. Moisture from the ground creeps up through the pores, or capillaries, in the masonry. Without a damp proof barrier to stop the moisture from rising in this way, the brick or other materials will continue to draw moisture form the ground until it eventually reaches its own level. That level depends on conditions such as humidity, temperature, evaporation, and the type of construction and insulating materials used.
Masonry with fine pores, for example, will allow moisture to rise higher than a more coarse material. A humid environment slows evaporation, which also allows the moisture to rise higher. Where evaporation is severely inhibited (for instance, because of the use of sealants) moisture can sometimes rise more than two metres. Most often, rising damp will reach a level of about one metre.
SALT IS THE CULPRIT
Ground water contains soluble salts, such as chlorides, nitrates and sulphates. These salts in solution with the ground moisture rise up the wall and are left behind when the moisture evaporates. Over time, large quantities of these salts are deposited in the masonry and decorative surface of the building. Salts (not dampness) cause most of the damage.
CAUSES OF RISING DAMP.
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If there is no damp proof course, or barrier.
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If the existing damp proof course has deteriorated because of age or other reasons.
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If the damp course has been installed incorrectly, for example, if it does not cover the full width of the wall.
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Alterations or renovations of the building or surrounding grounds if the effects on the existing damp proof barrier are not taken into account.
OUR PROCESS
RISING DAMP SOLUTION
Wall re-plastered with water proof screed in the plaster.
Interior plaster removed up to 1 meter high. Coat exposed bricks with water proof poloscreed paste. We then redrill through to the next brick to saturate the entire wall.