Liverpool Damp Proofing Specialists and Builders

There are a few key causes of dampness, each contributing to a different type of damp issue, with the most common four being:

Condensation occurs when warm, moist air comes into contact with cooler surfaces, such as walls or windows, leading to water droplets forming on the surface.

Over time, these droplets can soak into porous materials like plaster and wallpaper, causing damp patches to appear. If left untreated, this can eventually lead to mould growth and a potential decline in the overall indoor air quality.

Rising damp occurs when groundwater is drawn up through a property’s walls due to capillary action. This water carries dissolved salts and can rise up to a metre in height, causing visible damage and decay.

Signs of rising damp include deteriorated skirting boards and floorboards, flaky plaster, and a distinct ‘tide mark’ on the walls.

Water ingress is another common source of damp, often resulting from external factors like faulty gutters, downpipes, or ineffective water drainage systems.

It refers to water seeping into a property through faults, cracks, or breaches in the building’s envelope or structural integrity. This can lead to damp patches, saturated wall insulation, and even structural damage if not addressed in a timely manner.

Penetrating damp happens through the horizontal infiltration of water from the exterior of a building through the walls, rather than vertically. It’s commonly indicated by blotchy patches on walls or ceilings, which darken when it rains.

Without quick and skilful intervention, penetrating damp can cause severe structural damage, including timber decay and heat loss, complicating the living conditions.