Types of Damp

Rising damp

This is caused by ground water moving up through a wall or floor.

It is usually prevented by the damp-proof course and damp-proof membrane installed during a property’s construction, but sometimes these can deteriorate.

Some obvious signs of rising damp are:

• Tide marks rising up walls
• Peeling decoration (paint or wallpaper) and wet patches on walls
• A white powdery substance on walls (salts)

Rising damp can be cured with specialist treatment.

Penetrating damp

Penetrating damp is typically caused by rain penetrating the structure of a building.

Rainwater can soak through external structure of the building and travel to interior walls and ceilings. Penetrating damp can damage decoration, plaster, and the walls themselves.

Some common causes of penetrating damp are:

• Blocked/defective guttering and downpipes
• Cracks or pointing defects in brickwork or render
• Gaps around doors and windows

In most cases, penetrating damp can be cured by rectifying the defect.

Condensation

Condensation occurs when moisture in the air changes to water on a cold surface.

Warm air holds more moisture than cold air, so when the temperature is low or falls condensation will form.

Condensation can lead to mould which is a type of common fungus. In homes, mould spores land on moist surfaces and begin to grow.

This mould will only grow on clean water, such as condensation if this is left for a period of time.

Left untreated, certain types of mould can be harmful to your health.