You are probably aware that London sits on the Thames Valley Basin, which is a low-lying area with a clay base and this means a lot of moisture in the ground, which causes rising damp. Penetrating damp can impact a property from the roof, walls, window and door frames, while condensation forms when humid air meets cold surfaces.
In this short article, we take a closer look at why it is important to have adequate damp-proofing in your London home.
The dangers of rising damp
Damp that rises up from the ground is a very real threat to London properties, thanks to wet ground in low-lying areas; buildings have a damp proof course (DPC) that is inserted between lower courses of brickwork. This should act as a barrier to prevent moisture from impacting the building and should this membrane be damaged, nothing is stopping damp from rising using capillary action. One effective solution is to inject a chemical DPC into the brickwork, which prevents moisture rising up the walls.
Condensation
Condensation forms when moist air meets cold surfaces and droplets of water can damage building materials. One effective solution is to generate ventilation throughout the house; open a few windows to circulate the air and the correct use of extractor fans are both good ways to dry out humid air. If you have a condensation problem, contact London Damp Surveys and we will arrange for one of our qualified surveyors to inspect your home. We can test the moisture content in the air using a hygrometer, then identify the underlying causes.
Penetrating damp
Moisture that enters a building from the roof or exterior walls is called penetrating damp, mainly because it penetrates all materials and causes a lot of damage to masonry, plaster and timber. A leaking roof is a primary cause of penetrating damp and we recommend regular roof inspections in order to detect the issue early and arrange for damp-proofing solutions.
Mould is a health hazard
Mould thrives in damp and humid conditions and prolonged exposure can lead to serious respiratory disease. Minute spores are released into the atmosphere and if you notice green or black mould, we recommend arranging a damp survey with our family-run business. Mould can thrive in damp and dark places and a thorough inspection would reveal the whereabouts of mould and mildew.
Pre-purchase damp survey
At London Damp Surveys, we have designed a damp inspection specifically for potential buyers, which is a thorough inspection from the footings to the roof; if damp is present, we will find it and recommend the best solution. Our certified damp inspectors use state-of-the-art equipment to survey for damp, mould and timber rot, issuing you with a detailed report within 24 hours of the survey being completed.
Don’t delay, call us on 020 307 5997 or fill in the online form and one of our surveyors will make contact with you shortly.
