Understanding the Role of Building Materials in Damp Prevention

The inclement weather we have here in the UK can wreak havoc on properties; cloud cover seems the norm these days and we get more than our fair share of rain, especially in London and the southern part of the British Isles. Damp causes serious damage to buildings and in this article, we take an in-depth look at the role of building materials in the prevention of damp.

Penetrating damp

Moisture, by its very nature, penetrates building materials such as brickwork, mortar, masonry, plaster and timber, which can lead to significant damage to a structure. If moisture gets into any of these materials, it will penetrate, or in the case of ground damp, it will rise up walls, causing damage as it spreads. Perhaps the homeowner’s worst enemy, damp can quickly cause structural damage that would cost thousands of pounds to repair.

Damp proof materials

These are substances with special qualities that are designed to resist moisture penetration; here are a few materials that are used to protect buildings from moisture.

• Plastic/PVC – Sheets of plastic can be used to create a barrier to prevent moisture seeping into a building.
• Bitumen – This is a by-product of petroleum distillation that is commonly used to damp proof a structure. It is usually applied as a coating and when it dries, the material cannot be penetrated by moisture.
• Damp proof paint – A special paint that is applied to surfaces to prevent damp from penetrating a building.
• Bitumen felt – This material comes in sheet form and is an effective barrier to prevent moisture.
• Mastic asphalt – A type of asphalt blended with mastic that is excellent for heavy moisture areas.
• Damp proof bricks – Specially treated bricks that resist moisture penetration; they are typically used on the lower courses of a structure.
• Damp proof mortar – Regular sand and cement mortar with an added element that prevents moisture penetration.

All the above materials can be used to prevent moisture from damaging a structure; at London Damp Services, we offer a wide range of comprehensive damp proofing services that is backed by a gold-seal 30-year guarantee.

Things you can do to prevent damp from attacking your home

Here are a few ways that you can prevent damp from damaging your home:

• Clean out the guttering
• Wipe away condensation
• Heat the entire house
• Open windows to create an airflow

Be proactive when it comes to damp, mould and mildew; inspect the exterior walls and the timber window and door frames, go up into the attic and take a look at the joists and rafters, looking for any signs of water damage. External damp proofing is often the best long-term solution and we guarantee our work for 30 years.

Damp surveys

Those who are planning to buy property in London should commission a homebuyer damp survey, which accurately assesses a building for the presence of damp, mould, woodworm and dry rot. Aside from a detailed written report, we also quote for any recommended damp proofing services.

Call London Damp Specialists on 020 8528 3864 and let the damp proofing experts give you a professional opinion.