Damp Proofing

Experts in damp proofing in Southend, Rayleigh and Westcliff

Damp is the most common structural problem afflicting domestic properties. A 2014 report suggested that 44% of the United Kingdom are living in houses affected by one form of damp or another. It is one of those things that is so easy to put off because its effects are so incremental, but we always advise that you have it seen to as soon as you are aware of its presence. Damp can – and does – cause serious damage to interior walls if left unchecked, as well as causing or worsening certain medical conditions such as asthma and eczema.

Solving the problem of damp

There are several possible ways to damp proof a home. Here at Essex Preservations, we are experts in figuring out which will be most suitable for you. There can be any number of factors, including where and how the moisture is getting in, the extent of the damage already incurred, and general issues regarding the humidity of the area where the house is located.

Some of the ways that might be considered include the following:

Damp-proof course

A damp proof course (or DPC) is normally installed to prevent rising damp, where the moisture is drawn into the building through ground water. A simple description is that it siphons groundwater at a level below the internal walls, preventing any further encroach of rising damp.

Damp proof membrane

A damp proof membrane (or DPM) is a thin sheet of non-porous material (polyethylene membrane, for instance) that is laid across porous building materials, such as concrete or timber, to prevent a transmission of moisture. Both a damp proof course and a damp proof membrane may be utilised at the same time.

Integral damp proofing

This is normally done at the construction stage and involves incorporating certain materials into the mix of concrete so that it will be impermeable to moisture once it sets.

Cavity Drainage Systems

The use of cavity drain membranes prevents pressure from building up against the internal construction and the air gap allows the structure to breathe – and to some extent to dry out. Cavity drain membranes are loose laid on floors and fixed to walls using special plugs and sealing materials, with little or no preparation required to the substrate. Once the membrane has been fitted, wall surfaces can be dry lined or plastered directly and floors can be screeded or a floating dry board system installed.

An expert evaluation

Our first task, at Essex Preservations, will be to visit your property and inspect the damp itself. Once we are satisfied as to the cause of the problem, we will be able to advise you on the most effective way to relieve it.

Our damp proofing engineers are all highly-trained professionals, with many years of experience in this field, and will come up with the ideal solution to your damp problem, whether it be an issue with excess groundwater in Southend or unusually porous brickwork in Westcliff.

A quote just for you

All of our damp proofing solutions are tailor-made to our individual customers’ exact requirements and come with a free quote, with no-obligation to accept. Call our team today on 01702 811499, and let us help you solve your damp problem.