Top Five Tips For Damp Problems!

Top Five Tips for Damp Problems!

Old House - Damp Problems due to lack of Damp Proof Course

Old Houses often have Damp Problems due to the lack of a Damp Proof Course

1.   Look around your house – is there a defect, crack or blockage through which water could be getting in?

This could be a sign of a penetrating damp problem. Penetrating damp problems are caused by defects within the building or plumbing system where water has been able to come into the property. A water mark on an internal wall would be a sign of penetrating damp, and can give a good clue as to where the leak is getting through, so check externally in the same area as the watermark for any obvious problems.

DIY solutions
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  • check the pipes, drainage and gutters for any blockages including moss, leaves, dead birds etc. Remove the blockage and you might find that the damp problem goes away easily!
  • If the guttering is old, maybe it needs to be replaced
  • Ensure that any cracks in the walls or window frames are fixed
  • Have a good look at the roof. Are there any loose slates? Problems with the roof are a common cause of penetrating damp problems

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Damp Cellar

Can I Use Damp Proof Membranes On My

Damp Cellar?

Newton Specialist Basement Contractors - the most important step towards a dry basement

Newton Specialist Basement Contractors - the most important step towards a dry basement

In a word, no. Damp proofing membrane systems are designed to deal with capillary held moisture only – with smaller damp proofing problems, for example damp walls – and as such are only suitable for above ground application. Where external ground levels are higher than the internal floor levels such as in a damp cellar then there is a risk of hydrostatic water pressure and damp proofing walls only will be a futile exercise if a running water situation occurs Whenever there is a situation where earth is bearing against the structure and making the wall damp a damp proofing membrane solution should not be considered. It would also not conform to BS8102 (British Standard for The Protection of Structures From Water From The Ground).

A Full Waterproofing Membrane System Is Best

The remedial method adopted should be a waterproofing system design and application. John Newton and Company’s website for full details about their Waterproofing Membrane System. Their Newton System 500 is regarded as the premium drained cavity waterproofing system available and the preferred choice for professional specifiers and professional waterproofing contractors alike.
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