Understanding Penetrating Damp: Causes, Signs, and Solutions

Those who are old enough would have fond memories of a sitcom by the name of Rising Damp, which is a term that most UK homeowners know. Due to the damp climate we have here in the UK, moisture can penetrate walls, causing significant property damage and in this short blog, we take an in-depth look at penetrating damp, what causes it, tell-tale signs and most importantly, how to resolve damp issues.

What causes penetrating damp?

Moisture can easily penetrate bricks and mortar, as well as plaster and cement; modern houses typically have courses of damp proof built into the brickwork, which prevents damp penetrating past this obstacle. A leaking roof is one cause of dampness; any sign of dampness in upstairs ceilings should be immediately investigated. Your local roofer can carry out a thorough inspection to locate the source of the leak, then prompt repairs resolve the problem. A blocked drain can lead to rising damp, as water pools around the foundations and eventually seepage will occur. If your drains are blocked, call in a drainage specialist who has the know-how and the resources to identify and remove the blockage.

Other potential causes of penetrating damp

Damaged external cladding can lead to moisture damaging the interior brickwork and plaster; whether timber, aluminium or PVC, if cladding is not sealed properly, water is likely to penetrate and damage the interior materials. Doors and windows require sealing with silicone to prevent rain from entering where the frames meet brickwork; silicone is elastic and can stretch and contract with building movement, making it ideal for exterior waterproofing.

Tell-tale signs of penetrating damp

Mould and mildew growth is a result of dampness in a structure, which is a health hazard that can cause respiratory issues for the occupants. A musty odour often accompanies dampness and if you even suspect dampness is present in your home, call in a local damp-proofing company to carry out a survey, a team of professionals that are dedicated to dealing with all forms of dampness.

Damp proof specialists

Wherever you happen to live in the UK, you are never far from a reputable damp-proof specialist, a company that offers surveying to identify all forms of dampness. At London Damp Specialists, we take great pride in the services we offer. You can book a survey via our website and get to the bottom of the issue before too much damage is caused.

Your home is probably the biggest single investment you will ever make; therefore, it makes perfect sense to maintain the property in every respect. Penetrating damp can have devastating consequences, especially on older houses; if you are considering purchasing a property in London, call London Damp Specialists on 020 8528 3864 and let our experts do some testing, in the event damp is present, we can carry out remedial work to resolve the issue.

Our work is guaranteed for 30 years and we have the best surveyors who take great pride in the work.