If you live in the UK, you already know how damp the climate is and this can lead to serious damage to buildings. In this short blog, we take an in-depth look at the various forms of damp and the damage that can cause to UK homes.
Rising damp
This kind of damp rises up from moist ground and gradually climbs exterior walls, causing damage as it does so. All buildings should have a damp proof course, which is sandwiched between brick courses near ground level and if this membrane is compromised or damaged, damp can rise up from the ground. It can be very difficult to repair damaged damp proof course and the best solution might be chemical damp-proofing, which can be injected into walls.
Condensation
Condensation forms when two extreme temperatures meet on a single surface, which might be a wall or a pane of glass; typically, when taking a hot bath or shower, a lot of condensation forms, which can be dissipated by opening the windows. Wait until the condensation has gone before opening the bathroom door, the same goes when cooking in the kitchen; turn on the canopy extractor fan and open windows until the moist air escapes. Poor ventilation certainly doesn’t help, as still, damp air enables condensation to form.
Penetrating damp
Penetrating damp can attack a building from the roof or walls; a leaking roof, for example, can cause serious damage to roof timbers, while also damaging brickwork and plaster. Water can penetrate through exterior walls or rotten window frames and if brickwork, mortar or rendering is damaged, damp can penetrate the walls and reach the interior plaster.
Mould and Mildew
Mould can be a serious health hazard, causing skin allergies and respiratory conditions; should you notice mould growing in your home, call London Damp Surveys on 0207 305 5997 during office hours or simply enter information in the online form on this website to arrange for one of our certified damp surveyors to inspect the property.
Timber rot
Both dry and wet rot can damage timber and if not treated, can cause serious damage; woodworm is another threat, with species of beetle that lay eggs in tiny holes they burrow into the wood. If you notice tiny mounds of dust alongside a number of tiny holes, this is a sure sign of woodworm and you need to call in the experts.
Your home is probably the biggest single investment you will ever make, therefore, it makes sense to protect your asset by having a damp survey carried out by a leading London company. Call London Damp Surveys on 0207 305 5997 during office hours or fill in the form on this website. You will receive a detailed report within 24 hours of the survey completion and should we advise remedial work, we can recommend a reliable damp-proofing contractor that covers your area.
