Dampness In Buildings And How To Deal With It

Dampness in buildings can be a real wet blanket (pun intended). It's like that unwanted guest who just won't leave your party, only this guest can wreak havoc on your property. In this blog, we're diving into the causes of dampness, how to prevent it, and how to send it packing.

Causes of Dampness in Buildings

Let's face it; buildings can get damp for various reasons. Identifying these causes is like solving a mystery, and here are some of the usual suspects:

Condensation: Condensation is like the building's way of saying, "I'm feeling a little too hot and bothered." When warm, moist air meets cold surfaces, it's like an awkward first date – it gets all sweaty and uncomfortable.
Penetrating Damp: This one's a bit of a drama queen. It usually happens when your building starts leaking, which can be triggered by a damaged roof, cracked walls, or gutters that couldn't handle their liquor (read: rainwater).
Rising Damp: Rising damp is like an underground rebellion. It's when groundwater decides to rise through your walls, and it brings along its gang of troublemakers in the form of damaging soluble salts.
Leaks and Plumbing Shenanigans: Faulty plumbing and leaky pipes are the building's version of a soap opera. Drama unfolds, water leaks, and it's showtime!

Preventing Dampness

Now, let's talk about how to show dampness the door before it crashes your building's party:

Proper Ventilation: Think of good airflow as your building's breath of fresh air. Install exhaust fans in stuffy areas like bathrooms and kitchens to let off some steam.
Maintenance: Regularly inspect your property for signs of damage. Repair any cracks or openings before they become full-blown problems.
Damp Proofing Defense: Use damp-proof courses (DPCs) and membranes during construction. For existing properties, consider giving them a retro-style makeover with DPCs.
Landscaping: Make sure your property's surroundings slope away from the building. This way, rainwater rolls away, and your building stays dry.
Sealant Shenanigans: Apply waterproof sealants to areas prone to leaks. Your building will thank you by staying cozy and dry.

Remediation of Dampness

If dampness has already gate-crashed your building, don't fret; you can kick it out with style:

Unmask the Culprit: Before you whip out your superhero cape, figure out what's causing the dampness. Fix leaks, improve ventilation, or lay down the damp-proofing law as needed.
Material Makeover: In cases of severe dampness, you may need to remove and replace damaged materials like plaster, insulation, or wood to prevent mold growth and structural damage.
Mould Mayhem: Mould often joins the dampness party. Kick it out with authority, and then treat the area with mould-resistant coatings.
Drying: Dehumidifiers and fans speed up the drying process; make the most of them!
Reconstruction Rendezvous: Once everything is dry and in order, it's time for a makeover montage. Restore affected areas to their former glory and watch your building shine.

Conclusion

Dampness in buildings is a common issue that can lead to significant problems if not properly managed. By understanding the causes, taking preventive measures, and addressing dampness promptly, you can protect your property from damage and create a healthier living environment for yourself and your family. Regular building inspections by a qualified building surveyor can also help identify and mitigate dampness issues early, saving you time and money in the long run. If you have any concerns, give us a call!

ABOUT US

Naftel Associates are Chartered Surveyors and Architects based in Guernsey. We have the skills and expertise to help you with your project from conception to completion. Our Architects will be pleased to discuss design options with you. Likewise, our Chartered Surveyor has extensive experience producing tender documentation and managing building projects. We are also up to date with the latest planning and building regulations.

Please get in contact for an architectural consultation, give us a call on +44 (0) 1481 740474 or email admin@naftel.co.uk.