Taking a Closer Look at Different Types of Moisture Damage and Damp Proofing Options

Posted by Gale Freeman on March 16th, 2024

Moisture can be a major problem in homes and businesses. It can cause building materials to deteriorate and even lead to certain health concerns for the people living in affected buildings. Dampness comes in different forms with three of the most common being condensation, penetrating damp, and rising damp. You can keep each of these problems at bay with the right damp proofing strategies.

Taking a Closer Look at Different Types of Damp

Damp occurs when moisture invades a structure and causes damage. Though all buildings are exposed to moisture at times from precipitation and humidity, ongoing exposure can leave them particularly vulnerable. Take a closer look at the previously mentioned forms of damp.

Rising Damp

Rising damp happens when water from the ground moves upward through building materials. That moisture works its way into the pores of those materials where it can lead to significant damage. It can cause plaster to disintegrate and paint to bubble and peel. It may cause wood to warp and decay as well. Installing a damp proof course, which is a barrier against rising damp, can help prevent this problem. It'll keep groundwater from penetrating building materials so it won't have a chance to cause damage.

Penetrating Damp

Penetrating damp is the result of water entering a building from outside. Leaking roofs, malfunctioning gutters, and cracks in walls are common sources of penetrating damp. With this problem, water moves horizontally through building materials. Remedying this issue involves finding and repairing the source of water infiltration. External waterproofing is the key to keeping penetrating damp from causing damage. Ongoing maintenance is also essential for ensuring damp proofing measures continue to provide adequate protection.

Condensation

Condensation is another form of damp. This occurs when excess moisture in the air accumulates on surfaces like windows and walls. Common activities like cooking and bathing can cause condensation, but it's generally not a problem in buildings with proper ventilation and humidity control. For those with inadequate ventilation, though, it can become a serious issue. Installing fans, air vents, and dehumidifiers can help keep condensation and its consequences at a minimum.

Preventing Moisture Damage

Rising damp, penetrating damp, and condensation are common sources of moisture damage in homes and businesses. Having a damp survey performed can aid in identifying potential sources of moisture infiltration. At the same time, installing damp proofing measures can keep moisture where it belongs and prevent costly damage moving forward.