Unravelling the Mystery of Rising Damp: Identification, Impact, and Intervention

Understanding Rising Damp

Rising damp is a common issue that affects many properties in the UK. It is a phenomenon where moisture from the ground rises up through the walls of a building. This happens due to the capillary action of the bricks and mortar, which absorb water from the ground like a sponge. The water then travels upwards, causing damp patches, peeling wallpaper, and a musty smell.

Identifying Rising Damp

Identifying rising damp can be a bit tricky as it often gets confused with other forms of dampness like condensation or penetrating damp. However, there are certain signs that can help you identify if your property is affected by it. These include:

– Damp or wet patches appearing on walls, usually up to a metre above the floor.
– Wallpaper peeling away from the wall.
– A musty smell in the affected rooms.
– Black mould appearing on walls.
– Salt stains on the walls.
– Rotting of skirting boards or floor timbers.

Active vs Historic Rising Damp

It’s important to distinguish between active and historic rising damp. Active rising damp is currently happening and causing damage to your property. On the other hand, historic rising damp is a past issue that has been resolved but has left visible signs of damage.

To determine whether the rising damp is active or historic, you can look for signs of ongoing moisture. If the damp patches on your walls are wet to touch and the musty smell persists, it’s likely that the rising damp is still active. However, if the patches are dry and the smell is gone, it’s probably a case of historic rising damp.

Properties Affected by Rising Damp

Rising damp can affect any property, but it is more common in older buildings. This is because modern buildings are usually built with damp proof courses (DPCs) which are barriers installed into the fabric of the building to prevent water rising from the ground. Older buildings may not have these, or they may have become ineffective over time.

Dealing with Rising Damp

If you suspect your property has rising damp, it’s important to act quickly to prevent further damage. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Get a professional survey: A professional surveyor can accurately diagnose the problem and suggest the best course of action. At Flettons, we offer comprehensive building surveys that can help identify rising damp and other potential issues with your property.

2. Install or repair the DPC: If your property doesn’t have a DPC, or if it’s damaged, you’ll need to have one installed or repaired. This will create a barrier that stops water from rising up from the ground.

3. Improve ventilation: Good ventilation can help reduce the amount of moisture in your property, which can help prevent rising damp.

4. Use a dehumidifier: A dehumidifier can help remove excess moisture from the air, which can help control rising damp.

5. Apply a damp proof treatment: There are various damp proof treatments available that can help protect your property from rising damp. These include damp proof paints and creams.

Remember, it’s always best to consult with a professional before attempting to treat rising damp yourself. Incorrect treatment can sometimes make the problem worse and lead to more extensive damage.

At Flettons, we’re committed to safeguarding your investment. When considering a property purchase, trust our seasoned expertise to reveal any hidden threats. For a thorough building survey, get your instant quote through our quote calculator or reach out directly at 0203 691 0451. Your home’s safety is our top priority.