At London Damp Surveys, we have a wealth of hands-on experience inspecting London homes, looking for the presence of damp, mould and timber rot. The wet climate we have here in the British Isles creates the perfect environment for damp and mould to thrive and in this short blog, we take an in-depth look at how damp, mould and timber rot can damage a building.
Rising Damp
Damp that penetrates buildings from the ground can destroy timber, degrade and break down brickwork, as well as infecting plaster and cement. Every building should have a damp proof course, which sits between brick courses and provides a moisture barrier to prevent damp rising from the ground. If you suspect that your home is under attack from rising damp, contact London Damp Surveys and we will arrange for one of our surveyors to inspect the property.
Penetrating damp
This is a term for moisture that penetrates from the roof or walls, which can cause some serious damage to both exterior and interior walls, not to mention the interior roof structure that is mainly timber. Compromised masonry or rendering well let moisture into the building and it can penetrate into the interior walls. Crumbling plaster and peeling wallpaper are two tell-tale signs that damp has taken hold of your interior and arranging a damp inspection from London Damp Surveys would pinpoint the source of the moisture penetration.
Mould
Mould might not be as destructive as damp, but it is definitely a health hazard, especially black mould, which causes serious respiratory conditions if the spores are inhaled. Mould thrives in damp conditions with little or no ventilation and any signs of fungal infection means you should call in London Damp Surveys for a definitive inspection.
Condensation
In a damp and humid setting, water vapour can turn to liquid and run down the windows; condensation can also form on walls, which is a sure sign of a high moisture content in the room. Ventilation is an essential aspect of removing condensation; when we carry out a survey, we do a ventilation flow test to accurately measure the airflow within a building.
Woodworm
There are two species of beetle that are common in the UK, namely, the Common Furniture Beetle and the Death Watch Beetle; these hardy insects burrow into timber and lay eggs, which are creamy white in colour. Tell-tale signs include small round holes with mounds of dust next to them, dead beetles might be found on the floor nearby and also you might notice the beetle entering or leaving its nest.
Wet and dry rot
Fungal growth that destroys timber comes in many colours and textures; from black to green, brown and even orange, if not treated, this growth will spread and the fungi releases tiny spores that will eventually start a new colony.
If you would like a detailed inspection of your London home regarding all of the above, call London Damp Surveys on 0207 305 5997 or fill in the online form on this website.
