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.

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Radon remediation involves lowering the concentration of radon in buildings and water supplies. Radon is a radioactive gas that can pose serious health risks. It is also a contributor to the environment. Radon mitigation is necessary to prevent radon from becoming a public health issue. However, radon mitigation requires a large amount of money and time – Go here

What is the most common method of radon mitigation?

Radon is a natural gas produced during the decay of uranium in the Earth’s crust. It rises through soil and bedrock and seeps into buildings through the subfloor and foundation. When levels exceed 4 picocuries per liter, remediation is needed. The World Health Organization recommends that radon levels should be reduced to a level below this level.

Radon mitigation includes sealing holes and cracks. While caulking over cracks can reduce radon levels, it is not effective for large crawl spaces. In these cases, an air-to-air heat exchanger is a good option. This ventilation system is also known as an Energy Recovery Ventilator.

After a radon mitigation system has been installed, it must be maintained. Many mitigation companies offer maintenance services. Homeowners may also do this maintenance themselves. Maintenance can include cleaning the vent stack, sealing cracks, re-painting system parts, and performing radon testing every couple of years.

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