Damp proofing
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Damp proofing in construction is a protective measure applied to the exterior of building foundation walls.
Rising damp can arise for various reasons - the failure of an existing damp proof course (dpc), bridging due to the raising of external ground or internal floor levels, or in older buildings, the complete absence of a damp proof course.
Brick, stone and mortar are porous allowing damp from the ground to rise by capillary action, carrying with it ground salts including chlorides and nitrates.
These salts can absorb moisture from the atmosphere leading to wall dampness in conditions of high relative humidity. Also they can ruin decorations and break down internal plaster.
Damp proofing remedies include:
- Silane Diffusion: Utilising a concentrated thixotropic silane / silicone ‘cream’
- Siliconate Transfusion: A gravity fed system with no wastage via hidden voids
- Siliconate Injection: Recommended occasionally for single brick walls
