Penetrating damp is a frequent issue in older buildings, especially in areas like Greater Manchester, where the weather and aging infrastructure often contribute to moisture problems. Unlike rising damp, which comes from ground moisture, penetrating damp occurs when water enters a building from the outside through walls, roofs, or windows. Over time, penetrating damp can lead to significant structural damage, as well as damp patches and mould growth inside the property.
At Weather Wise Solutions Limited, a family-run business, we specialise in diagnosing and fixing penetrating damp in old buildings across Greater Manchester. In this blog, we’ll explore the common causes of penetrating damp in old buildings and how you can address these issues to protect your home.
What is Penetrating Damp?
Penetrating damp is the result of water seeping through a building’s external walls, roof, or windows. This can happen due to poor maintenance, aging building materials, or damaged structures. The damp often appears as dark, damp patches on internal walls or ceilings, and it can lead to the development of mould, rot, and other moisture-related problems.
Common Causes of Penetrating Damp in Old Buildings
Old buildings are particularly susceptible to penetrating damp for several reasons. Here are the most common causes:
1. Damaged or Deteriorating Brickwork
Old buildings often have brickwork that has weathered over time, leading to cracks, gaps, or porous surfaces. As the exterior walls age, they become more vulnerable to water ingress, particularly during heavy rain. Damaged pointing or cracked mortar can allow water to penetrate the structure, leading to damp patches inside.
2. Faulty Roofs
A common source of penetrating damp in older properties is a faulty roof. Missing or broken tiles, worn flashing, or damaged roof membranes can all allow rainwater to enter the building. If the roof is not regularly maintained, water can seep through the cracks and cause damp problems in the upper levels of the property.
3. Leaking Gutters and Downpipes
Old or blocked gutters and downpipes are another major cause of penetrating damp. If water is not properly directed away from the building, it can overflow and seep into the walls, causing damp patches to form. In older buildings, where the guttering system may not have been upgraded or cleaned regularly, this is a particularly common issue.
4. Poorly Sealed Windows and Doors
Older buildings often have ill-fitting windows and doors that lack modern sealing technology. This can allow rainwater to enter the property around the frames. In addition, decayed window sills and cracked or missing window putty can also contribute to water ingress, leading to penetrating damp.
5. Lack of External Waterproofing
Many older buildings were not constructed with modern waterproofing techniques, leaving them exposed to the elements. As a result, walls may absorb moisture during rainy periods, especially if the brickwork or stone has become porous over time. Without adequate external protection, penetrating damp becomes more likely.
6. Cracked Render or Peeling Paint
Cracked render or peeling paint on the exterior of a building can allow water to penetrate the surface of the walls. These protective coatings are designed to shield the structure from moisture, but as they degrade, they lose their effectiveness. Once water enters through these cracks, it can cause damp patches and damage the internal structure of the building.
How to Fix Penetrating Damp in Old Buildings
Addressing penetrating damp requires identifying the source of the water ingress and taking the necessary steps to repair and prevent further damage. Here’s how to fix common causes of penetrating damp:
1. Repair Damaged Brickwork
If your old building has cracked or damaged brickwork, it’s important to carry out repairs to prevent water from entering. This may involve repointing, which is the process of removing and replacing the damaged mortar between bricks. In some cases, sealing the brickwork with a waterproof coating can also help prevent further water penetration.
2. Fix Roof Leaks
Inspect your roof for any damaged tiles, worn flashing, or broken membranes. Repairing or replacing the damaged sections will prevent rainwater from entering the building. In cases of severe damage, a roof replacement may be necessary to fully protect the property from water ingress.
3. Clean and Repair Gutters and Downpipes
Regularly cleaning your gutters and downpipes is essential for preventing water from overflowing and entering your walls. If your gutters are damaged or leaking, replace them to ensure that rainwater is properly directed away from your building. Installing modern guttering systems may also help improve drainage efficiency in old buildings.
4. Seal Windows and Doors
To prevent water ingress through windows and doors, inspect the seals and frames for any gaps or signs of wear. Apply weatherproof seals around the frames to prevent water from entering, and repair or replace any decayed window sills. For older buildings, upgrading to double-glazed windows can also help improve insulation and reduce moisture problems.
5. Apply External Waterproofing
Consider applying an external waterproofing coating to the walls of your old building to protect against penetrating damp. Modern waterproofing solutions, such as silicone-based treatments, can help reduce water absorption and protect the brickwork or stone from further damage. At Weather Wise Solutions Limited, we use high-quality waterproofing products from trusted suppliers like PAM Ties, Wykamol, and Builders Superstore.
6. Repair Render or Repaint External Walls
If your building has cracked render or peeling paint, it’s important to repair these issues to prevent water from seeping through. Re-rendering damaged sections and applying a fresh coat of weather-resistant paint can help keep your walls dry and protected from moisture.
Preventing Penetrating Damp in the Future
To prevent future occurrences of penetrating damp, regular maintenance and inspections are key. Here are some tips to keep your old building in good condition:
- Inspect your brickwork, roof, and gutters regularly for signs of damage or wear.
- Clean gutters and downpipes at least twice a year to prevent blockages and water overflow.
- Seal windows and doors properly to prevent water ingress around the frames.
- Apply waterproof coatings to protect external walls from moisture.
- Check for cracked render or peeling paint and repair as necessary.
Why Choose Weather Wise Solutions Limited?
At Weather Wise Solutions Limited, we have years of experience in diagnosing and fixing penetrating damp in old buildings across Greater Manchester. As a family-run business, we are committed to providing high-quality damp-proofing solutions that protect your home from moisture-related damage.
Here’s why homeowners in Greater Manchester choose us:
- Expert Damp Proofing Specialists: We provide tailored solutions for diagnosing and fixing penetrating damp, ensuring long-lasting protection for your property.
- Free Damp Surveys: We offer Free Comprehensive Damp Surveys to assess your home for damp issues and recommend the best course of action.
- High-Quality Products: We use trusted products from leading suppliers like PAM Ties, Wykamol, and Builders Superstore.
- Customer Satisfaction: Our team is dedicated to providing excellent service and ensuring that your home remains dry and damp-free.
Book Your Free Damp Survey Today
If you’re concerned about penetrating damp in your old building, contact Weather Wise Solutions Limited today to book your Free Damp Survey. Our expert team will assess your property, identify the source of the damp, and provide tailored solutions to protect your home from further damage.