Damp Proofing
Lancashire Damp Proofing trained technicians provide a range of effective damp proofing and remedial services to identify, treat and cure damp problems. In most cases damp is caused by the presence of excess moisture within a building, from either internal condensation or moisture penetrating the walls, roof or floors from outside. If left untreated, there is always the risk that dampness will lead to more serious long term problems, such as wet or dry rot.
These conditions can seriously devalue your property and will result in expensive renovations and repairs being required.
What does the term ‘Damp Proofing’ mean?
Damp proofing is a term used to describe the various methods employed to stop moisture entering a building.
Damp proofing treatments prevent water being absorbed through walls, floors and interior spaces of a property. When moisture (damp) passes through walls or floors it can often result in structural damage such as dry or wet rot and other problems.
Damp in a building can be attributed to a variety of reasons. Poor build quality, lack of building maintenance or the deterioration of building fabric, problems with insulation, ventilation etc.
The first step is to inspect and diagnose the source of the damp and take appropriate action to control, treat and cure as required.
Condensation Control
A common cause of condensation is when moisture is present within the air of a building that has poor ventilation. The moisture in the atmosphere condenses when it touches cooler surfaces such as windows, walls or ceilings. This condensation will result in the development of mould growth.
Modern home improvements such as cavity wall insulation, double glazing etc can reduce ventilation and lead to condensation and mould problems.
We provide a number of solutions to combat condensation caused by poor ventilation. These solutions include restoring the natural ventilation in your property and introducing additional ventilation systems which remove moisture and improve airflow.
We can provide a plan with options for the most appropriate and effective solutions and remedies to ensure damp caused by condensation is controlled, treated and cured once and for all.
Rising Damp
Rising damp is caused by ground water moving up through a wall. Most walls allow some water in, but it’s usually stopped from causing damage by a barrier called a damp-proof course. This is usually a horizontal plastic or slate strip in the wall.
If this is missing or ineffectual, your wall may suffer from rising damp. This type of damp can also happen when the level of the ground outside your home is higher than your damp-proof course, allowing water to get above it.
Symptoms of rising damp
If you have rising damp you may notice damaged skirting boards and floorboards, crumbling or salt stained plaster and peeling paint and wallpaper. There may also be a tide mark along the wall.
Penetrating Damp
Penetrating damp is caused by water leaking through walls. This type of damp may move around within a building, but this is through horizontal movement rather than by travelling up walls (as is the case with rising damp). Penetrating damp is usually caused by structural problems in a building, such as faulty guttering or roofing.
Symptoms of penetrating damp
Penetrating damp often shows up through damp patches on walls, ceilings or floors, which may darken when it rains. You’re more likely to get penetrating damp if you live in an older building with solid walls, as cavity walls provide some protection. This protection can be compromised and cavities blocked by poorly fitted of failing insulation. See Cavity Wall Extraction.
Mould Control
Mould in all of its guises requires very little nutrient to grow on walls and ceilings, irrespective of the decorative finishes. Mould spores will also create a further risk to health when they become airborne. When you have a mould problem, just washing alone even with bleach, WILL NOT solve the problem. It WILL return!
One of the main causes of mould growth is a lack of air movement, but other factors can influence development. By reducing moisture and introducing or restoring ventilation in the affected area or throughout your home will eradicate mould growth.
We provide a range of methods and technology to improve or restore your property’s natural ventilation.
Dry/Wet Rot
Dry and wet rot attacks the timber in your property. The existance of damp combined with poor ventilation provide the ideal conditions for fungal growth. Successful dry/wet rot treatment requires the replacement of defective timbers and treatment of retained timbers using HSE approved biocides which are surface-sprayed, brushed on or injection to prevent further infection.
Our technicians will advise on any additional damp proofing services which can improve ventilation or address dampness in other areas which have caused the wet/damp rot. Whatever the specific problem or causes, we will provide the best solution to ensure it does not return and to retore your property’s natural ventilation which will provide a healthy, damp free environment.
Mould Control
Mould in all of its guises requires very little nutrient to grow on walls and ceilings, irrespective of the decorative finishes. Mould spores will also create a further risk to health when they become airborne. When you have a mould problem, just washing alone even with bleach, WILL NOT solve the problem. It WILL return!
One of the main causes of mould growth is a lack of air movement, but other factors can influence development. By reducing moisture and introducing or restoring ventilation in the affected area or throughout your home will eradicate mould growth.
We provide a range of methods and technology to improve or restore your property’s natural ventilation.