The problem of high moisture levels in the base of walls is very common, yet can be managed by a number of different methods. The key is to identify the cause of the moisture and its origins before a solution can be devised which can be implemented cost effectively.
What are the first signs of rising damp?
It is important that the problem of high moisture levels is identified before any kind of remedial work can be undertaken, as it is likely to be a sign of an underlying drainage issue or a structural defect which may require rectification before remedial work can commence. This will usually involve a thorough investigation of the property, including the use of specialist instruments to check for evidence of drainage issues or other structural defects.
Treating Rising Damp
In order to address the problems of high moisture levels in the base of walls, it is often necessary to apply a rising damp-proof course. This process is very time consuming and expensive and traditionally involves cutting out and removing masonry, before replacing it with a physical damp-proofing course.
Using Dryrod Damp-Proofing Rods
A simple and effective way of treating the problem of rising damp is to use dryrod damp-proofing rods to create a new damp-proofing course along the masonry line. The benefit of using these rods is that they do not require the masonry to be cut into and replaced and are ideal for historic buildings as the treatment can be removed if required.