Understanding Different Types of Damp In Properties and How To Resolve Them

Damp is a common issue in many properties and can cause significant damage if not properly addressed. Understanding the different types of damp, their causes, and how to resolve them is crucial for maintaining a healthy and structurally sound home.
Moisture Meter being held up against a damp-damaged wall.

1. Rising Damp

Causes

Rising damp occurs when moisture from the ground moves upward through the walls by capillary action. This is often due to a damaged or non-existent damp-proof course (DPC).

Signs

Look for tide marks or damp patches on walls, peeling wallpaper, and a musty smell near the base of walls.

Resollution

To resolve rising damp, a new damp-proof course can be installed to prevent moisture from rising through the walls. In severe cases, replastering may be necessary to remove salts deposited by the moisture.

Mould and damp damage at the top of windows.

2. Penetrating Damp

Causes

Penetrating damp is caused by water seeping through walls due to external defects like damaged roofs, leaking gutters, or cracks in the masonry.

Signs

This type of damp manifests as localized damp patches that appear after rain, often on ceilings or walls that face the prevailing weather.

Resolution

Repairing the external defects, such as fixing the roof, sealing cracks, or improving guttering, is essential to stop water ingress. Once the source is addressed, the affected areas may need to be dried out and treated for mold.

Mold in the corner of the plastic windows

3. Condensation Damp

Causes

Common signs include water droplets on windows, black mold growth, and dampness in corners or behind furniture.

Signs

Condensation damp is caused by excess moisture in the air condensing on cold surfaces, typically in areas with poor ventilation.

Resollution

Condensation damp is caused by excess moisture in the air condensing on cold surfaces, typically in areas with poor ventilation.

A couple sitting on the floor among a pile of open boxes, drinking from mugs and laughing.

How Marshall Laurence Surveyors Can Help

At Marshall Laurence Surveyors, we provide expert assessments to accurately diagnose the type of damp affecting your property. Our chartered surveyors conduct thorough inspections and offer tailored solutions to effectively address and resolve damp issues.

Comprehensive Inspection

We’ll assess the entire property to determine the cause and extent of the damp problem.

Detailed Report

Our reports outline the type of damp, its causes, and recommended remedial actions.

Expert Solutions

We provide clear advice on the best course of action, whether it involves repairing external defects, improving ventilation, or installing a new damp-proof course.

Why Choose Us?

RICS Certified

RICS regulates and promotes the property surveying profession. Within our team we have both RICS Registered Valuers and RICS Accredited Mediators this ensures our expertise sets us apart.

CIOB Certified

The Chartered Institute of Building is the world’s largest and most influential professional body for construction management and leadership since 1834.

Google 5-Star Rated

Dozens of our satisfied customers have rated us 5-stars on Google, which gives you peace of mind that we deliver a high-quallity service time and time again.

Why Choose Us?

RICS Certified

RICS regulates and promotes the property surveying profession. Within our team we have both RICS Registered Valuers and RICS Accredited Mediators this ensures our expertise sets us apart.

CIOB Certified

The Chartered Institute of Building is the world’s largest and most influential professional body for construction management and leadership since 1834.

Google 5-Star Rated

Dozens of our satisfied customers have rated us 5-stars on Google, which gives you peace of mind that we deliver a high-quallity service time and time again.

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