Published: 8 February 2023
Introduction:
After a homeowner in West London noticed damp problems in the back wall surrounding their property, they asked Prokil to carry out a thorough damp inspection of the problem areas.
This kind of inspection includes looking for signs of water infiltration, such as water stains, mould, or mildew. The inspector also looks for any cracks or gaps in the walls that could be allowing water to enter the home.
Based on the findings of the inspection, we provided the homeowner with a report detailing our recommendations for repairs.
Damp survey findings:
Prokil discovered signs of rising damp within the walls by way of Protimeter testing.
Rising damp is caused by water being drawn up through the walls of a building due to capillary action. The moisture brings with it salts and minerals from the ground, which can cause decorative damage as it evaporates. The rate of progression depends on the building materials and moisture levels in the ground. A damp proof course is an effective barrier to prevent rising damp.
Work carried out:
Step 1:
In order to minimise possible damage, all personal effects were removed from the area where the works were to take place; Prokil is always very careful to minimise any disruption to the properties we work on.
Areas of damp-affected plasterboard were then stripped away down to the masonry. This step is crucial to create the blank canvas needed for treatment.
Step 2:
We installed a DPC injection solution to remedy the current rising damp and to protect against future damp problems.
A damp proof course (DPC) is a barrier installed in the walls of a building to prevent rising damp. It is typically installed during construction at the base of the walls, and it separates the ground level from the internal floor level. This provides a physical barrier to stop moisture from rising into the building.
The DPC is a long-term solution that helps to protect the property from the damaging effects of rising damp.
Step 3:
Damp proof plastering is where a specialist plaster is applied to a masonry wall to form part of remedial damp proofing. Prokil completed new plasterwork to the full height of the property’s back wall, ensuring it complied with current British Standards Code of Practice.
Finished result:
On completion of the treatment, all waste was removed, and the customer’s home was left tidy and ready for redecoration.
All works were undertaken in line with our Prokil Guarantee, which ensures that the client is covered for 20 years.
Treating the issue is paramount, not only to live comfortably within your property, but also to protect it for the future. Even if you don’t plan to live there forever, the changes you’ve made will act as an investment and the proof of care that potential buyers or tenants will need to see, which is a great sale point.
If you have are experiencing damp within your property in London or the surrounding areas and need a cost-effective solution, don’t hesitate to contact our expert team who will be more than be happy to help.
