Damp can enter your property in three ways:
Condensation
Condensation occurs when moist air comes into contact with dry air, or a surface that is at a lower temperature. Warm air holds more moisture than cold air. When moist air comes into contact with either colder air or a colder surface, the air is unable to retain the same amount of moisture and the water is released to form condensation in the air or on the surface. This is most common in properties that have poor ventilation. Condensation usually forms on non-absorbance services such as bathroom tiles or windows.
Condensation Treatment Costs
Condensation can be relativity inexpensive to treat, providing you have spotted it early. There are a range of condensation control products on the market to treat the effects of condensation, from fungi treatment to ventilation systems and dehumidifiers. Minor condensation problems can be treated cheaply and quickly, however more severe cases may need specialist advisors to direct you on what treatments are suitable to your property’s condition.
Penetrating Damp
Penetrating damp can be caused by a number of defects. The most common causes are blocked gutters or a broken pipes as these allow moisture to seep through the building. Overtime, the damp will become more visible as it was cause severe damage to your paintwork. In the winter months, the water in the walls will begin to freeze and expand, causing the paint to lift and flake.
Penetrating Damp Treatment Costs
The most common remedy is for a builder or damp specialist to apply a water repellent to the outside of a property. If they are unable to do this they may apply a damp proof membrane or tanking product to the inside walls to stop the water ingress.
Rising Damp
Rising damp occurs when ground water rises through the masonry substrate of the building. You will notice rising damp as the unwanted moisture will begin to form various mould growths in the wood, causing rot. Wallpaper will begin to loosen and paint will deteriorate. Externally, mortar may crumble and salt stains may appear on the walls. Steel and iron fasteners rust. It may also cause respiratory illness in occupants. In extreme cases, mortar or plaster may fall away from the affected wall.
Rising Damp Treatment Costs
Rising damp is probably the most expensive to cure, however considering its severity, it is a job you want to get done properly. Treatment usually requires a new chemical damp proof course being installed. Damp proof courses act as an impermeable barrier and protects against damp, preventing the damp reappearing. New damp proof courses are normally installed by drilling holes in the mortar course and inserting a special damp proofing cream, the internal walls must also be re-rendered to stop salt from re appearing.