How Does Damp Damage Buildings?

Damp-related structural damage doesn’t happen overnight, but the longer it’s left, the worse it gets. Water can seep in due to rising damp, penetrating damp, or inadequate ventilation. This can gradually damage the inside of your property, like timber supports, brickwork, and plaster finishes.

Older buildings are especially vulnerable. Many pre-1980s homes lack a practical damp-proof course or have compromised construction materials. Moisture builds up in the walls, floors, and ceilings as time passes, causing visible damage and hidden structural issues.

Structural Issues Can Include (But Are Not Limited To):

• Timber rot and decay often affect joists, lintels, and roof rafters.
• Cracked or weakened masonry, especially where brick or render has been saturated.
• Deteriorating plasterwork, with signs like bubbling, flaking, or discolouration.
• Corroded metal fixings, such as wall ties or structural brackets.

According to the UK Government’s Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS), damp and mould are declarably serious hazards. They can harm property, safety, and the health of those living there.

What Structural Damage Symptoms Should You Look Out For?

Spotting the signs early can save you thousands in future repair work. However, you may still be unsure whether the damage is merely decorative or something more serious.

If So, Here’s What to Look Out For:

• Soft, decaying skirting boards or window sills.
• Uneven or spongy flooring due to rotted joists.
• Water stains on ceilings or upper walls, often from penetrating damp.
• Moss or algae growth on external brickwork – indicating long-term moisture contact.
• Cracks in plaster or masonry near floor junctions or around windows.
• Persistent musty smells are a common sign of hidden timber decay or damp insulation.

These symptoms don’t always appear all at once. But even minor signs should prompt an expert survey to assess whether structural damage is developing behind the scenes.

Why Choose Prokil for Structural Damp Damage Repair?

For over 50 years, Prokil has been a trusted name in diagnosing, treating, and repairing damp-affected properties. But what makes us stand out? We don’t just patch over the problem; we fix it at its source.

Why Thousands of Homeowners, Surveyors, and Landlords Choose Prokil:

• All surveys are carried out by PCA-accredited surveyors (CSRT, CSSW).
• We don’t use commission-based staff. Our advice is honest, expert, and obligation-free.
• You’ll receive a detailed breakdown of findings, recommended treatments, and transparent costs.
• Every treatment comes with our long-term 20-year Prokil Guarantee.
• With branches across the South and beyond, we know all about heritage buildings and modern construction.

Still unsure? Browse our case studies to see how we’ve helped restore and protect properties just like yours.