💧 Understanding the Difference
Damp problems can cause structural damage, mould growth, and expensive repairs, but not all damp issues are the same. Rising damp and penetrating damp are two of the most common problems affecting homes, and identifying the right type is crucial for effective treatment.
🆚 What Is Rising Damp?
Rising damp occurs when moisture from the ground travels up through brickwork due to capillary action. This is common in older properties where the damp-proof course (DPC) has failed or is missing.
Signs of Rising Damp:
✅ Tide marks or staining on walls (usually up to 1m high)
✅ Peeling wallpaper and flaking plaster
✅ White salt deposits (efflorescence) on the surface
✅ Musty smell and damp skirting boards
How to Treat Rising Damp
- Damp-Proof Course Installation – A modern silicone-based injection creates a protective barrier.
- Plaster Removal & Replastering – Contaminated plaster should be replaced with a breathable plaster.
- Improve Drainage – Ensure external ground levels are below the damp-proof course to prevent bridging.
🌧️ What Is Penetrating Damp?
Penetrating damp occurs when water enters a building through walls, roofs, or windows due to structural defects, poor maintenance, or heavy rainfall. Unlike rising damp, it can appear at any height on walls.
Signs of Penetrating Damp:
✅ Damp patches on walls and ceilings
✅ Dripping water from roof leaks or cracks
✅ Mould growth due to excess moisture
✅ Deteriorating external brickwork or pointing
How to Treat Penetrating Damp
- Fix Structural Defects – Repair damaged brickwork, render, and pointing.
- Improve Drainage – Clean gutters, downpipes, and check for leaks.
- Apply a Waterproof Coating – Breathable water-repellent treatments prevent rainwater absorption.
🔧 Expert Damp Solutions from Weather Wise Solutions
At Weather Wise Solutions, we provide expert damp treatment services, helping homeowners identify and resolve damp issues effectively.
We use high-quality damp-proofing solutions from PAM Ties and follow best practice standards from the Damp Proofing Association to ensure long-lasting results.
📞 Book a Free Damp Survey Today
Don’t let damp damage your home! Get professional damp-proofing solutions from trusted experts.
Book a Free Survey for your Home here with Weather Wise Solutions—your local damp specialists.