When homeowners spot damp at the base of internal walls, the first thought is often “I need a new damp proof course.” But that’s not always the case. In many properties across Chorley and the North West, we find that damp is caused by bridging — where plaster or render below the skirting board makes contact with the floor, bypassing an otherwise functional DPC.
At Weather Wise Solutions Limited, we assess each home individually and will never recommend a new DPC unless it’s genuinely required. In fact, many cases of low-level damp can be fixed simply by removing the bridging plaster and allowing the wall to breathe.
🧱 What Is Bridging Plaster?
Bridging occurs when internal plaster or render extends below the original damp proof course (DPC), physically connecting damp ground levels to the interior wall. This creates a path for moisture to bypass the DPC, mimicking the symptoms of rising damp.
Common signs include:
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Paint bubbling or peeling near skirting boards
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Staining, musty odours, or minor mould at low wall levels
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No visible salt contamination in plaster
The lack of hygroscopic salts often helps rule out true rising damp.
🔍 Do You Need a New DPC?
You likely don’t need a new DPC if:
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There’s no visible salt contamination
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The existing DPC is present and intact
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The damp is localised at floor level and not spreading upward
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Moisture meter readings are elevated only behind the skirting
In these cases, we carefully remove the plaster just behind the skirting boards (not up to 1 metre high), allowing the wall to dry and breathe naturally.
🔒 Get an Insurance-Backed Guarantee
At Weather Wise Solutions, we can update or supplement the DPC at no extra charge when bridging is the cause of damp. This ensures our customers still receive an insurance-backed guarantee for long-term peace of mind, even when a full new DPC isn’t needed.
✅ Our Approach in Chorley and Surrounding Areas
We work with trusted systems from PAM Ties and are accredited members of both the Damp Proofing Association and the Federation of Damp. Our team is fully qualified in Dampness in Buildings (CPD) and offers honest, tailored advice on whether a full DPC or simple plaster removal is required.
📞 Speak to a Damp Specialist Near You
Don’t waste money on unnecessary works. If you suspect bridging or want a second opinion on a quote, get in touch.
👉 Book a Free Survey with Weather Wise Solutions Limited – your local damp specialists in Chorley.