Rising Damp
What is Rising Damp?
Rising damp is a rare but severe form of damp that damages building walls. Moisture from the surface rises through the walls as a result of capillary forces. This indicates that like a collection of straws, groundwater is drawn up through small holes in the bricks. This liquid carries salts, which can move up the wall as well.
Other porous structural elements, such as plaster and the wood used in baseboards, joists, and skirtings, are found around the affected wall. These products can also readily absorb groundwater, and you can see signs of wet rot in the wood.
Growing damp is usually detected by the damage it does to a building’s interior walls. Paint and plaster deteriorate with time, and wallpaper loosens. At the point where the surface water has hit, a noticeable stain emerges on the wall in the shape of a tide mark. Salts can emerge on the inner wall as well. This is a common symptom of rising damp and can result in paint and plasterwork debonding. Mortar can collapse externally, leaving white salt stains on the wall.
The threats of Rising Damp.
The threats of living in a house with a rising damp problem
Apart from structural collapse, rising damp has the following consequences:
Health:
Mold, mildew, and other microorganisms that live in damp and wet conditions can be risky to the occupants of the home. Damp symptoms can cause allergies at the very least, and bacterial infections at the worst.
Regulation:
If rising damp is not solved, the property owners will be subject to disciplinary action. Many local council and government building regulations require routine inspections and checks to ensure that structures are safe and secure places to live and work. Noncompliance could result in a hefty fine as well as other legal issues.
Depreciation:
Increasing dampness will drastically lower the home’s value, causing large losses to the seller.
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