STOP RISING DAMP & PENETRATING DAMP
with our damp proofing & damp repair solutions
Not every damp problem has the same cause.
Damp can enter a property in a number of ways, including rising damp, penetrating damp, condensation, defective pointing, problems with external walls, inadequate ventilation and moisture entering below-ground areas.
Identifying the cause is an important first step in deciding what treatment is appropriate. and treating the visible symptoms, without addressing the underlying issue can leave you with the same problem further down the line.
WHAT IS RISING DAMP?
Rising damp occurs when moisture from the ground is drawn upwards through the walls of a property.
This can happen when the damp proof course (DPC) is missing, damaged, bridged or no longer providing adequate protection against ground moisture.
Rising damp typically affects the lower sections of walls, although the extent and appearance can vary depending on the construction and condition of the property.
If left untreated, persistent moisture can damage plaster and decorative finishes and may contribute to unpleasant smells, staining and deterioration of the wall.
However, similar symptoms can have other causes, which is why accurate diagnosis is important.
WHAT IS PENETRATING DAMP?
What Are the Signs of Rising Damp?
There are several signs that may indicate rising damp, including:
🔹 Damp or discoloured patches near the bottom of walls - Moisture may be visible along the lower sections of internal walls.
🔹 Peeling paint or wallpaper - Persistent moisture can cause decorative finishes to blister, peel or deteriorate.
🔹 Damaged or crumbling plaster - Continued exposure to moisture can cause plaster to become damaged or deteriorate.
🔹 Salt deposits - White, powdery deposits can sometimes appear on walls as moisture evaporates and leaves salts behind.
🔹 A musty smell - Persistent dampness can contribute to a damp or musty odour.
🔹 Damaged skirting boards - Skirting boards close to affected areas can deteriorate where they are exposed to prolonged moisture.
Penetrating damp occurs when water from outside a property finds its way through the building fabric and into the internal walls, ceilings or other areas of the home.
Unlike rising damp, which generally affects the lower sections of walls as moisture moves upwards from the ground, penetrating damp can occur at any level of a property. It is often associated with defects or deterioration to the outside of the building.
The location and pattern of the damp can sometimes provide clues about where the moisture is entering.
Possible causes of penetrating damp
There are several potential causes, including:
🔹 Damaged or defective pointing - Cracked, missing or deteriorated mortar joints can allow rainwater to penetrate through external walls.
🔹 Cracked render or masonry - Cracks in render, brickwork or stonework can provide pathways for water to enter the building.
🔹 Damaged roof coverings - Broken tiles, slates, defective flashing or other roof problems can allow rainwater into the roof structure and eventually into internal areas.
🔹 Blocked or leaking gutters - Overflowing or damaged gutters can allow large amounts of water to run down external walls, potentially causing damp internally.
🔹 Defective downpipes - Cracked, leaking or poorly connected downpipes can discharge water against walls instead of carrying it away from the property.
🔹 Damaged window and door seals - Failed seals or defective areas around windows and doors can allow rainwater to enter.
🔹 Defective external finishes - Damaged render, cladding or other external finishes can allow water to penetrate the building.
🔹 Bridging or defects around openings - Problems around windows, doors, roof junctions and other openings can create routes for
water to enter.
🔹 Exposure to severe weather - Properties that are particularly exposed to driving rain can be more vulnerable, especially where the external fabric of the building is already deteriorated.
Damp Problems? We Can Fix Them.
Specialist Damp Proofing in Huddersfield Since 2015
At HomeFix Damp Proofing, we specialise in accurately diagnosing the cause of damp and providing effective, long-lasting solutions to protect your home.
Since 2015, we have helped homeowners tackle a wide range of damp problems, from rising damp and penetrating damp to condensation, cellar damp and sub-floor ventilation issues. We don't simply treat the symptoms — we identify the underlying cause and recommend the right solution for your property.
From diagnosis to treatment, HomeFix Damp Proofing provides honest advice, quality workmanship and dependable damp proofing & damp repair solutions throughout Huddersfield and the surrounding areas.
Rising Damp
Damp rising through walls can cause staining, damaged plaster, peeling paint and salt deposits. We can assess the problem and provide an appropriate damp proofing treatment.
Penetrating Damp
Water entering through external walls, roofs, pointing, windows or other areas can cause persistent damp internally. We'll help identify where the moisture is coming from and recommend the appropriate solution.
Damp Proof Course Injection
Where a suitable solution is required, we can install an injected damp proof course to help prevent moisture travelling upwards through the walls.
Tanking & Waterproof Membranes
For below-ground areas and properties affected by water penetration, we provide tanking and membrane systems designed to help protect internal spaces from moisture.
Cellar & Basement Tanking
Turn damp, unusable below-ground areas into cleaner, more usable spaces with professional cellar and basement waterproofing solutions.
Condensation Control
Condensation can lead to persistent moisture, mould and unpleasant smells. We can identify contributing factors and recommend practical ways to improve ventilation and moisture control.
Patch Pointing
Damaged or deteriorated pointing can allow water to penetrate external walls. Our patch pointing service can help address areas where defective pointing may be contributing to damp.
Air Bricks & Sub-Floor Ventilation
Good ventilation beneath suspended floors is important for helping to control moisture. We can install or improve air brick and sub-floor ventilation where required.
QUICK CHECK GUIDE
Do you have any of the following?
Visible salt stains or tide marks?
Damp patches after rain?
Peeling paint or wallpaper?
Musty smell?
IF YES
IT'S TIME TO CONTACT US