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Lifecote Rising Dampness Systems

 

Rising damp is usually found by the signs of a damp line appearing on the inside wall. This is often combined with damage to skirting board and decorations.

 

The result of this rising damp is structural damage to interior render- plaster systems. It should also be noted that recent findings by the asthma foundation concluded that damp rooms can increase the risk of developing asthma. Rising damp occurs when ground water is allowed to rise vertically through walls by capillary action and is caused by the breakdown of, bridging of, or non existence of, a damp proof course (DPC). Thus the dampness is rising through the actual mortar beds rather than through the brickwork itself. 

If left unchecked it will rot any floor joists and other interior timber it comes into contact with, culminating in the development of wet rot or dry rot if conditions of lack of ventilation allow.

 

The following will contribute and develop rising dampness in buildings:

  • Blocked or defective rain water goods (guttering).
  • High ground levels, new drive ways, paths or tarmac bridging the DPC.
  • Defective pointing, porous brickwork, spauling bricks.   
  • Faulty or defective flashing on roofs or extensions.
  • Cracked or Missing roof tiles or slates.
  • Internal defects in cavity walls.
  • Cracked or Defective window sills.
  • Internal chimney defects- where a fireplace has been blocked in.  


Lifecote Ltd have been providing solutions to rising damp for over 14 years; using low hazard and water based ingredients. 

Important Note: Rising Damp along with all damp problems is a health risk. We recommend that a survey is carried out immediately if any damp problem is suspected.

 

                                                         

 

          

 

 

It is important to note that the provision of a barrier against rising damp will only prevent further moisture rising from the ground and that all other sources of dampness must be eliminated as well. Dampness, Condensation and consequential Mould growth or Fungal Decay causes deterioration to the fabric of buildings and can present a serious health hazard to the occupants.

There are many sources of moisture ingress, from missing slates to defective Damp Proof membranes, and to identify every defect which is allowing water to degrade a dwelling requires an expertise which can only be gained from many years of training, experience and practical involvement in building construction and refurbishment.

It is only by practical involvement that knowledge can be gained as to the hidden sources of water ingress and its consequences.

The damage caused by water is very often concealed behind plaster, under floorboards, in brickwork etc; leaks can remain undetected for long periods allowing huge reservoirs of water to build up and be contained within the fabric of the building and only by following a 'Trail of Suspicion' can the original source be traced and remedial measures contemplated.

                Type of Damp          Problem                Cause                                                                        Remedy
Rising Damp
Rising Damp
  • Dampness, usually at ground level
  • Staining of the inner wall at low level
  • Skirting board decay
  • Rusting of nails in the skirting
  • Damage to plaster
  • No Damp Proof Course (DPC) installed
  • DPC has failed
  • DPC is below ground level
  • DPC Injection
Penetrating Damp
Penetrating Damp
  • Damage to plaster
  • Water ingress
  • Timber decay
  • Outside problem such as faulty guttering, pointing or overflows
  • Building Maintenance Required

Lateral Damp
Lateral Damp

  • Presence of salt on the walls
  • Damage to plaster
  • Water ingress
  • Timber decay
  • Failure or lack of DPC
  • Raised soil level
  • Tanking System
Condensation
Condensation
  • Timber decay
  • Mould
  • Staining
  • Water on windows or sills
  • Water on walls
  • Poor air circulation or ventilation
  • High temperature fluctuations
  • Excessive moisture vapour
More Heat and Ventilation Required


 

Why not request a survey by calling 0800 043 2096 

or E-mail us at:

lifecote@hotmail.com

Further technical reading please click on the technical section.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
 

       Lifecote Ltd Head Office: 2ND Floor 145-157 St.John Street London EC1V 4PY