Selecting the Right Damp Proofing Method for Your Home’s Needs

Many UK homeowners are concerned about potential damp issues, as the wet climate encourages the growth of mould and damp is a real threat to buildings of all types. In this short blog, we present a few effective ways to damp proof your home.

Roof inspections

The most important component of your home, the roof has to endure the harsh UK climate and should you lose a few tiles after a heavy storm, water will enter the internal roof structure and attack the timber. All it takes is a few heavy downpours and your loft is a breeding haven for penetrating damp; for the little it costs, a comprehensive roof inspection brings peace of mind, knowing that every aspect of the roof is in good order. The guttering is cleaned out and should there be any issues, prompt repairs are in order.

Damp proof course

There should be a damp proof course (DPC) that was installed between the first few rows of bricks; made from bitumen, this thick strip prevents ground moisture from rising up the walls and has been widely used for over a century. If, for any reason, the DPC is compromised, damp can rise up, causing damage as it does so. This when you need essential damp repair services from an established company.

Ventilation

Your home needs to have adequate ventilation; at London Damp Specialists, we offer a ventilation flow test, as part of a homebuyer damp survey. Opening windows creates an airflow and while that might not be wise in cold weather, generating a flow of air does help to prevent damp and mould from arising. The use of extractor fans can also create an airflow, you should open your bedroom window for an hour or two first thing in the morning and after a hot shower/bath, open the windows and keep the door closed until the condensation is removed.

Portable dehumidifier

Investing in a dehumidifier will certainly help; you can use it in any room, a few hours is all it takes to dry out the air. If you are planning to move, have your new home surveyed by London Damp Specialists; you can find details of our homebuyer damp survey on this website. Our surveys have 3 levels, plus we offer an additional plaster testing service if required, and you will receive a detailed report within 24 hours of survey completion.

External walls inspection

You should walk around the house, paying close attention to the brickwork and timber close to the building line; check for mould and mildew and the general condition of the bricks or render; crumbling cement is a sign of damp and this needs further investigation. Inspect timber window and door frames and when you are ready to replace your windows and doors, aluminium or uPVC is the preferred material as it is not affected by moisture.

Call London Damp Specialists today on 020 8528 3864 or fill out the online form and let the professionals carry out a damp survey; should there be any issues, a written quotation will be included with the report. We specialise in all forms of damp proofing.

We guarantee our work for a full 30 years, which is a reflection of the high standard of workmanship that we provide to property owners in London and the Home Counties.