Top 5 Causes of Damp in London Properties & Prevention Strategies

If you asked any UK citizen what they would change if they could, most would say the climate; the UK has damp and drizzly weather and that is a serious threat to properties in London. In this short article, we take a look at the top 5 causes of damp and strategies for prevention.

1. Leaking roof – Roof leaks are probably the number one cause of damp in London homes; all it takes is a couple of missing or broken roof tiles and a heavy bout of rain to cause serious damage to the internal roof timbers. You should inspect your roof at least twice a year and any issues need to be sorted in a timely fashion, before damage occurs. A loft inspection would reveal any leaks and you should check for timber damage in joists and rafters.
2. Defective damp proof course – Known simply as DPC, this is made from either bitumen or a heavy-grade plastic and it is put between layers of bricks to stop moisture coming into contact with anything above the DPC line. In the event this is compromised, rising damp is a very real threat. One common solution is DPC injection, which is a cost-effective way to protect a property from rising damp.
3. Excessive condensation – Condensation is formed when two extreme temperatures meet and it normally occurs on the windows, although it can form on walls. Timber can easily be damaged if a home has condensation issues and you should wipe up before any damage is caused. If you create an airflow by opening a few windows, while installing extractor fans in the kitchen and bathroom can remove condensation. Open the windows after taking a hot bath or shower, while keeping the door closed to prevent moisture leaving the bathroom.
4. Crumbling brickwork and mortar – Exterior walls have to endure the harsh British climate and old bricks and mortar can be compromised by heavy rain and gale force winds. Frost is another thing that can break up masonry and if you scrape the surface with a screwdriver, if penetrating damp is present, the material will crumble. Should you notice this, call us at London Damp Specialists on 020 7548 4864 or fill in the enquiry form on this website.
5. Compromised timber window frames – Old timber frames made from softwood are easily damaged over time; older properties used mastic to seal window frames and this can lose its sealing qualities. Check the interiors of windows to see if there are damp patches in the reveals. New silicone sealant can be applied, which reseals the windows and stops damp getting into the home.

Damp and mould can cause serious damage to London properties and should you notice damp patches or a musky smell in the house, it is time to call in London Damp Specialists and let the experts identify the source of the damp. We offer a wide range of damp proofing solutions and we service London and the Home Counties.