4 signs your home needs rising damp treatment

There are several types of damp problem, so our damp proofing experts have put together a guide to help you spot the signs of rising damp in your home.

Signs of rising damp to look out for:

1) Distinctive damp patches

Rising damp starts at the floor or skirting board and rises upwards, leaving visible tide marks on both the exterior and interior wall. You may also see patches of mould and deposits of salt left behind by groundwater that has evaporated. Often, you will notice a musty or damp smell.

2) Damp patches are no more than 1.5m high

Rising damp is caused by groundwater travelling through the bricks and mortar of a property via capillary action as it seeks a means of evaporation. The damp will rise until no further evaporation is possible and gravity stops it from going any higher. This is typically when it reaches a height of 1.5m.

3) Damp is only affecting the ground floor

Rising damp is only ever found on the ground floor of a property, so any damp you spot on the upper levels is likely a case of penetrating damp or condensation instead.

4) Damage to the affected area

Areas that are affected by damp may start to show signs of damage. This includes crumbling or rotting skirting boards, as well as blistering and peeling wallpaper.

How do you treat rising damp?

The first course of action is to remove the contaminated plaster before injecting a specialist damp proof course. This will create a tight, water-resistant protective band through the thickness and length of the wall. Once this is complete, the affected walls will need to be replastered using a cement render with salt-inhibiting and waterproofing additives.

Concerned about rising damp in your home?

If you’re concerned about rising damp (or any other damp problem) in your home, please don’t hesitate to contact our experienced damp proofing team today on 01202 737739.