What are the disadvantages of damp proof course?

Author: Adrain Rohan  |  Last update: Friday, November 14, 2025

A liquid or cream is then injected into these holes. The disadvantages of getting a damp proof course injection are that it can be time-consuming and very messy. However, this type of damp proof course is great for thick walls and it's extremely long-lasting.

What are the disadvantages of damp proofing?

Disadvantages
  • Limited to Rising Damp: Damp proof injection primarily addresses rising damp issues and might not be as effective for other types of dampness, such as penetrating damp or condensation.
  • Potential for Incorrect Application: The effectiveness of the injection method heavily relies on the correct application.

What are the problems with damp proofing?

Damp proofing problems on the outside walls causes the mortar to fret and fall out between the bricks and stonework.
  • Mould and wet stains on skirting boards.
  • Decayed or rotting timber.
  • Crumbling plaster.
  • Peeling, bubbling or flaking paint.
  • Discolouration, mould growth and staining on walls.

What is the lifespan of a damp proof course?

It is important to note that while a properly installed DPC can provide long-lasting protection against moisture penetration, it is not immune to wear and tear over time. Depending on the quality of installation and external factors, a damp proof course typically lasts between 20 to 30 years.

What are the disadvantages of DPC?

Limitations of DPC include limited coverage for specialized care or procedures, availability, out-of-pocket costs, and lack of insurance benefits.

Does it need a new damp proof course

How long will DPC last?

It's also important to note that a DPC is still prone to wear and tear as time passes. Typically, DPC lasts around 20 to 30 years.

Is DPC worth it?

Conclusion. Direct Primary Care (DPC) offers many benefits, such as better access to care, personalized attention, and predictable costs. However, it also has limitations, like the need for supplementary coverage for emergencies or hospital stays.

Can you redo a damp proof course?

Installing a New Damp Proof Course

If the property doesn't have a DPC in place or an existing one has failed then you can install a new one using a damp proofing injection cream.

Does home insurance cover damp course?

Home insurance doesn't usually cover damp, whether it's caused by rising damp or condensation. This means your insurance won't cover the cost of any structural repairs nor the cost of replacing any of your belongings that may have been damaged by damp or mould.

How do you know if your damp proof course has failed?

Salt deposits

Efflorescence can commonly be seen on exterior brick walls. It appears as a white stain but is actually a build up of crystalised salt. If your DPC has been compromised, you could find that you notice salt deposits on your interior walls as well as your exterior walls.

Should all houses have a damp proof course?

All homes built after 1875 should have a damp proof course – this is when it became a compulsory building regulation. You can find it by checking the outside of your house and locating a seal that runs horizontally across the brickwork. It usually sits about 6 inches up from ground level.

What is better damp proofing or waterproofing?

Damp proofing prevents rising moisture from the soil. Waterproofing, on the other hand, stops any moisture and liquids from penetrating your structure. Additionally, waterproofing can withstand hydrostatic pressure, whereas damp proofing is not effective for water under pressure.

How messy is damp proofing?

Will the damp course installation process be messy? Damp proofing involves some plastering work which means that the old plaster on the walls needs to be fully removed. This process might create some dust but we ensure it is kept to a minimum by using dust sheets, damping down and dust suppression methods.

Is damp proofing expensive?

An injection of a damp proof course is a common solution for smaller, localised issues, costing £50 to £80 per linear metre. However, for more extensive problems, complete damp proofing of an average-sized property can cost £2,500 to £5,000.

What is a negative application of waterproofing?

Negative-side waterproofing is normally done when there is an existing wall and there's no way to get access to the outside (positive-side wall) to waterproof it. A typical example where this situation plays out would be with an existing below-grade, occupied space in a high-rise building in any downtown area.

Does damp proofing really work?

With the right technique and the right brand, yes, damp proof paint can really protect your home against damp. Just remember that ordinary paint will not treat damp or mould problems. It is also important to note that damp proof paint will not work if your property is suffering from structural damage caused by damp.

Does home insurance cover mold from water damage?

Homeowners insurance doesn't usually cover mold damage or removal unless it's the result of a covered peril. If the mold in your residence was caused by something sudden or accidental, such as a bursting pipe or some other covered incident on your policy, you may be protected.

Do all old houses have rising damp?

Rising damp is commoner in old (pre-c1919) buildings than new ones but rarer than often supposed. Modern buildings keep water out with a system of barriers: damp-proof courses (DPCs) have been required in walls since 1875 and damp-proof membranes (DPMs) in floors from the 1960's.

Can you do your own damp course?

Can you do damp proofing yourself? While it's possible to take steps to damp-proof your property yourself, more serious issues with rising damp and penetrating damp are usually best for professionals.

How many years does a damp proof course last?

Typically, a physical damp proof course lasts for 20-25 years and can fail due to it not being fitted properly or deterioration. If a damp proofing course has failed then this could potentially lead to rising damp. Rising damp is the movement of moisture through the walls and floors by capillary action.

How do you fix a damp proof course?

Install a remedial damp proof course

Depending on the thickness of the walls, holes are drilled in the mortar/brick to a predetermined depth and at the correct level and spacing. These holes are then injected with high concentration Dryzone DPC cream solution.

What are the rules for damp proof courses?

Building regulations require a damp-proof course to be elevated a minimum of 150mm above the ground or paving level for external walls. They should be continuous with any damp-proof membrane on the floor to prevent splashback from rain and mitigate the effects of standing water.

Is DPC tax deductible?

You can deduct your monthly membership fee as a medical expense on your taxes, according to the IRS. But your cost for DPC cannot be counted toward your deductible if you also have a high-deductible health plan or other insurance.

What is the best DPC?

PermaSEAL PRO DPC Injection Cream features the highest possible concentration of active ingredients. It is suitable for use by both professional contractors and DIYers. It can be injected into walls that are highly saturated (up to 95%). Permagard also stock Aida damp proofing cream.

How do I know if my DPC has failed?

What are the signs of a faulty damp proof course?
  1. A damp tide mark, typically up to 1.5m high on your inner wall, external wall, or both caused by groundwater gradually rising through the porous surface of your brickwork.
  2. Damaged skirting boards.
  3. Peeling wallpaper.
  4. Salt deposits on wall.
  5. Blistering or peeling paint.

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