Rising damp is a common issue in older buildings, especially those constructed before the 1950s. It occurs when ground moisture rises through porous materials such as brick, stone, or mortar due to the absence or failure of a damp proof course (DPC). If left untreated, rising damp can cause significant damage to plaster, flooring, and interior finishes.
At Weather Wise Solutions, we help homeowners diagnose and treat rising damp effectively using modern silicone-based DPC systems from PAM Ties.
🔍 What Causes Rising Damp?
-
Missing or failed DPC – Many older properties either don’t have a damp proof course or have one that’s broken down.
-
Bridging plaster or render – Plaster touching the floor can act as a wick, bypassing the DPC.
-
High external ground levels – Paths, soil, or concrete may be higher than internal floor level, pushing moisture inside.
-
Cavity wall contamination – Debris in the cavity can create a physical bridge for moisture to travel across.
⚠️ How to Spot Rising Damp
-
Tide marks or staining low on internal walls
-
Peeling paint or wallpaper near skirting boards
-
Crumbling or salty plaster
-
Rotting skirtings or floor timbers
-
Persistent damp smell even after cleaning
It’s important to confirm true rising damp through moisture mapping and assessing the full context — not just visual symptoms. At Weather Wise, we’re trained to distinguish rising damp from other common issues like condensation and penetrating damp.
🛠️ How We Treat It
Our rising damp treatments typically involve:
-
Moisture testing and inspection
-
Removal of salt-contaminated plaster
-
Injection of a new PAM Ties DPC system
-
Installation of vapour-permeable finishing plaster
-
Optional subfloor ventilation upgrades
Where appropriate, we’ll also identify and remove any bridging issues and advise on long-term prevention.
🏠 Why Choose Weather Wise?
We are a family-run damp proofing company serving the Midlands and North West, offering insurance-backed guarantees and a reputation built on trust and results. We’re also proud members of the Damp Proofing Association, using the latest materials and techniques to ensure long-lasting protection.
📞 Book a Free Survey for your Home here with Weather Wise Solutions – your rising damp and DPC installation specialists.