Damp-proofing is the process of creating a waterproof barrier that prevents moisture from entering a building. Common materials used for damp proofing include bitumen, polyethylene sheeting, and plastic membranes. Bitumen is applied to the surface of concrete and masonry walls to create a waterproof seal.
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.
Damp Proofing vs. Waterproofing Distinction: Damp proofing focuses on preventing ground moisture from rising through a building's walls or floor, typically using a damp-proof course. In contrast, waterproofing aims to block all forms of water, including vapour, withstand hydrostatic pressure, and combat soil moisture.
Any concrete or masonry foundation walls "that retain earth and enclose interior spaces and floors below grade shall be dampproofed from the top of the footing to the finished grade." The IRC then provides a list of the permissible materials, which include bituminous coating and acrylic-modified cement.
Whilst it isn't necessary, it is largely expected that damp proof specialists possess some formal qualifications.
Membrane Damp Proof Course
This method is well-suited for both new construction and older buildings, providing a reliable and long-lasting solution to dampness issues. Membrane DPCs offer excellent durability and resistance to water ingress, making them suitable for a wide range of building types and environments.
Dehumidifiers seem to be the obvious way of reducing humidity, removing condensation, stopping walls becoming damp and preventing mould. But a more effective solution is to give your home a small but consistent background movement of fresh air. This will help keep your home feeling fresher, healthier and mould free.
Chemical DPC fluids, such as Wykamol Microtech PIF Damp Proofing Fluid, work by penetrating the porous masonry when injected, filling the capillaries with a silicone micro-emulsion. This emulsion creates a continuous water-resistant layer that prevents moisture from rising through the walls via capillary action.
A damp-proof membrane (DPM) is a membrane material applied to prevent moisture transmission into the property. This is normally laid below a concrete floor. Integral damp proofing in concrete involves adding water proofers to the concrete mix to make the concrete itself moisture resistant.
While vapour barriers and vapour checks prevent or control moisture from entering walls, a damp-proof membrane serves a different purpose. A damp-proof membrane (DPM) is installed beneath floors to prevent dampness from rising into the building and causing rising damp.
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.
A damp proof course is applied at the lower parts of the walls to restrict the movement of moisture rising up and through the walls.
The good news is that damp proofing can last for 20 to 30 years or more when done well. Modern buildings have a damp-proof course included as part of the building process. This is a physical barrier within the building walls that prevents water ingress.
Damp proof paint can and does work, but only if there is no existing damp issue. If you have rising damp or penetrating damp and your walls are already damaged by it, it's not enough to simply paint over the problem – it won't solve it.
The DPC protects the property against moisture rising from the ground. Estimation of DPC is measured in square meters of area. Most commonly used material for damp proofing is Bitumen.
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.
Without the help of a professional, there is no guarantee these will work. In general, whether you can damp proof your home yourself will depend on the type of damp and the cause. For example, condensation can be easily dealt with by adding ventilation.
The majority of home insurance policies (covering either the building itself or the contents within it) will not provide you with any compensation for the damage that occurs as a result of rising damp. What's more, it is essential that you report signs of any rising damp to your home insurance provider.
You may have to attend a specialist college or training provider in order to become a damp proofer. You could complete a Level 2 NVQ in Insulation and Building Treatments (Construction) Wood Preserving and Damp-proofing. Find out what the entry requirements are where you live.
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.