Advanced Damp ltd

Dec 18

Damp Problems In Residential Properties And Types Of Treatment

Damp problems are a major problem in many residential properties in the Uk and have also been the major cause of poor indoor air quality.

When a residential property is described as "damp," it means that there is moisture, wetness, and condensation are present.

If you experience this, you need to get your property treated immediately because dampness can make your residential space unpleasant and uncomfortable to stay in.

And not just that, a damp property could be a breeding ground for mould, which can cause various kinds of respiratory ailments.

Hence, in this article, we'll be discussing damp problems in residential properties and the types of treatment you can use to get rid of these problems.

What are the types Of Damp Problems Found In Residential Properties?

You need to know the type of damp problem affecting your property first, so you can choose the most suitable type of treatment.

There are three major types of damp problems found in a residential property. They are discussed below

Condensation Damp Problems

This is the most common type of dampness you can find in most residential properties and it occurs as a result of moisture that has condensed on walls.

It happens mostly in rooms that tend to generate moisture. For example, in the bathroom and kitchen. It can be partly caused by winter but not always.

The Central Heating System that usually heats up before cooling off again might make condensation worse because it creates moist air that can eventually condense.

Some of the causes of condensation in residential properties might be a result of daily activities carried out, which include cooking, showering, and drying clothes, and through these activities, moisture is released into the air.

Once there is a lack of ventilation, especially in old homes, the damp problem becomes worse.

How To Identify Condensation Damp Problems in Residential Properties

Droplets of water on the walls and windows

The presence of a dark mould is mostly around the window or on the glass

A foul and mouldy odor.

The humidity level tends to increase

Consequences of condensation in residential properties

If the dump condensation is not treated, it can damage the plaster and paint.

The window frames might decay or rust, so it is advised to tackle the problem as quickly as possible.

Rising Damp Problems

This usually happens as a result of groundwater seeping through a wall or floor. Although it is normal for floors and walls to let some water through, there is a preventive measure to prevent it from causing any harm.

In cases where there is a lack of a drainage system, it can also lead to rising damp problems. The absence of a damp proof course can also be the cause.

How To Identify Rising Damp Problems in Residential Properties

The floor covering the property may swell up if the issue is coming from the ground.

Noticeable risen tide lines are visible on the walls.

Peeling of wallpaper and paint that frequently has moist patches

The plaster or skirting board is damaged.

Iron and steel fasteners rust.

Staining of wall covering

Moist and damp in odor

Penetrating Damp Problems

Penetrating damp tends to move horizontally and expand across the ceiling and walls of your home and is usually caused by water leaking through the walls of the building.

It can also happen as a result of proofing cracking walls, internal leakage, or structural problems such as faulty quarters.

If the walls of your building are solid and old, you will probably experience this problem.

In most cases, if the cavity wall insulation is not installed properly, it can lead to penetrating dampness.

How To Identify Penetrating Damp Problems in Residential Properties

Exterior wall with damp stains

Indications of black mold or spots in one area

Dry patches are located on the ceiling and walls.

Wet and crumbly plasters

Types Of Treatment For Damp Problems In Residential Properties

There are different ways of treating damp problems in residential properties and they are listed below.

Damp Proof Course

This is generally known as a treatment for damp and it is applied in commercial or residential properties to prevent damp problems.

A damp-proof course is also known as a horizontal type of waterproof strip that is usually built into the wall at a height of 15 cm above ground level. It is typically made from bitumen felt or plastic.

Damp-proof Membrane

The damp-proof membrane is known as a sheet of water-resistant type of material that is usually positioned beneath the floor.

It is usually connected to the damp-proof course to ensure that the property is watertight and sealed properly.

Electro-osmotic Damp Proof

With the electro-osmotic damp-proof course option, the water rising through your wall is resisted and directed back to the ground with an electric charge.

Chemical Dampness Protection

A damp-proof course that incorporates chemicals may be more useful than one that is solid. To generate a water-repellent layer, the silicone-based liquid is injected into the wall at least 150mm from the base.

Pressure Grouting

As a practical and affordable alternative to a damp-proof course, gaps and holes in a building's construction might be filled with grout or concrete.

Before concrete is pumped into the voids to make them moist, holes are bored into specified places in the building that are often selected by a specialist.

Integrated Damp Proof

During the mining process, components are mixed with the residential building's metal and concrete to create an inherent damp-resistant course.

This is done to ensure that the concrete is damp-proof by filling any spaces.

Cavity Damp Proof Wall

A cavity wall's function is to divide the inner and outer walls. The cavity wall serves as a barrier to stop dampness from transferring from your warm inside walls to the cold outer wall.

Most residential houses are expected to have the damp-proof course and all of the damp-proof membranes as it is now a requirement under the building regulations.

How To Generally Identify Damp Problems In Residential Properties

To look out for damp problems in your residential properties, it is advisable to do the below listed.

Always check windows for mold and high moisture levels or water appearing on windows.

Always check your walls if it feels damp and cold.

Make sure you check your kitchen and bathroom for any signs of mold growth.

Examine the basement for musty odors and wall stains.

How To Prevent Damp Problems In Residential Properties

There are different ways you can prevent damp problems from happening in your home. Here are some of the ways

Buy a humidifier as this helps to draw moisture out of the air, especially from showering and cooking.

Always improve your home's ventilation as this can help reduce and clear condensation.

Always check your gutters and downpipes to avoid any form of leakage that may lead to penetrating damp.

You can decide to make use of damp-proof paint or an exterior silicone water-repellent fluid in your house.

Do well to obtain a free or paid damp survey from a professional.

It is also advisable to install a damp-proof course on your property.

The Health Effects of Damp Problems in Residential Buildings

Apart from your building being affected, damp problems can negatively affect your respiratory system and can also trigger asthma attacks, which are very harmful to both old and young persons.

Other health effects include itching nose and throat, cold, cough, catarrh, sore eyes, etc.

How Much Will It Cost To Solve Damp Problems In Residential Properties?

Many factors determine the cost of treating damp problems, such as how bad the problem is, the size and age of the property, the area of the house that is affected, etc.

Below listed are the price range for treating the three types of damp problems

The Cost Of Fixing Condensation Problem In Residential Properties

To be able to install a good extractor fan may cost you 300 to 500 dollars depending on the company, and you will need to pay extra for installation and compliance with other building rules.

The Cost Of Fixing Rising Damp Problem In Residential Properties

Tackling this problem depends on the way the property was constructed. You can install a remedial damp-proof course and plaster for a 5m wall, which will cost about 1000 dollars.

The Cost Of Fixing Penetrating Damp Problem In Residential Properties

There's no fixed price for fixing penetrating damp because it only depends on if it affects pipelines or external coating.

In contrast to external coating, which may be more expensive, fixing pipelines and pipes requires only minor maintenance.

Does Home Insurance Cover These Damp Problems?

Home insurance policies might differ. Almost all home insurance policies do not cover damp or mold treatment because this problem can happen in any property, therefore it cannot be insured.

Wrapping Up

By now, you should know what a damp problem means, the types of damp problems, and how to identify these problems in any residential property.

Apart from that, the types of treatment for damp problems have been provided above, as well as other things you need to know concerning damp in your residential property.

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