Rising damp is both unsightly and extremely unhealthy, and in most cases results in timber rot and premature deterioration of your property as well as moisture seeping into the house itself. Rising damp also carries hygroscopically-salty salts, which in turn encourages dampness in walls in humid conditions of high humidity, which is usually the case in many modern homes that are poorly insulated. This can also lead to damp and mildew on window sills, carpet and carpets, sofas and wardrobes as well.
Rising Damp And Damp Proofing
Damp-proofing of the property is essential when faced with rising damp problems. If your home or building has an internal system for circulating air, this will help. If not, you need to ensure that you are using a suitable dehumidifier to ventilate your home and prevent damp problems occurring. You should also make sure that you have a sufficient water supply in order to ensure proper drainage for the entire building.
Locate The Damp
If your damp problem is on the exterior of your home, then you need to be concerned with the possibility of damp seeping into your home through cracks and crevices as well as leaking pipes outlets. Damp penetration is especially problematic on windows and doors, where moisture could be seeping into the house through cracks in the door or window frames, or the window or door itself. Damp penetrations may also be due to condensation forming on your windows and doors, which are another sign of damp problems. Condensation can build up on the interior of your windows and doors over time and slowly rot the wood inside of your house. It can also cause discolouration of windows and doors, especially if it is humid outside and warm indoors.
If you suspect there is moisture seepage coming through the roof and around your building, you should investigate the roof and chimney. If they are leaking, you may have to replace these sections of the roof. If your attic is leaking, you may have to replace your attic insulation to prevent further damp issues.
Interior Damp
If you have damp problems in your kitchen or bathroom, you should check to ensure that your kitchen and bath taps are not blocked with ice or frost. These areas are likely to become more susceptible to moisture seepage as winter approaches and will soon begin to set in.
Once you have eliminated any potential sources of moisture seeping through your roof and windows, you can then take action to address rising damp issues in your home or building. It is best to check with your plumber to identify possible sources of damp seepage on the exterior of your home.
