Damp Proofing Mitcham

Damp Proofing Mitcham Greater London (CR4): Problems with damp in your property in Mitcham may not only look unattractive, but they can also trigger major health and structural problems too. More significant issues can also be hidden under damp patches and peeling wallpaper, and could cost 1000s to repair if not treated speedily. If you think you may have such damp issues you should contact a competent Mitcham damp proofing specialist to inspect your property, and suggest the most effective damp proofing treatment for your house.

Essentially, with regards to damp in the home there are 3 main problem areas:

PENETRATING DAMP

Some of the exterior issues that could lead to penetrating damp include: damaged gutters or downpipes, blocked cavities, cracked or loose roof tiles and damaged or porous brickwork. From within, the causes can be cracked shower trays, overflowing sinks or baths and burst or leaky water pipes. If water continues to seep into the woodwork and walls, the visible signs over time will be broken or blistering plaster, dark, damp patches on walls and flaking or bubbling paintwork.

If left untreated for some time, a leaking roof can cause wet rot in your roof timbers. Although it can't spread into the brickwork, wet rot can cause your roof timbers to become structurally compromised, and in a worst case scenario you could even need to have a new roof - extremely expensive! A musty smell of rotten wood, the presence of black fungus, and a "spongy" feel to your roof timbers, are all indications that wet rot is already a problem. When any of these wet rot signs are noticed, it's vital to address the issue promptly to prevent further damage and the potential need for expensive roof replacement.

You should not fret however, because to prevent these problems from occurring, a few simple steps like repointing dodgy brickwork, cleaning and checking your roof & gutters for leaks and examining pipework for leaks, should aleviate such situations. If you employ the expert services of a knowledgeable Mitcham damp proofing specialist, they will check all these areas as a part of your overall damp proofing package.

CONDENSATION

Among the most common causes of dampness is condensation, and many houses in Mitcham have problems with this. When warm, humid air makes contact with a cool surface, water collects as tiny droplets. Where high humidity is present, as in boiler rooms, kitchens and bathrooms, condensation is often caused by poor ventilation.

There are a couple of easy ways of managing condensation, and these are making certain that troublesome areas have good ventilation, and wiping water droplets away as they form on surfaces. Redirecting humid air outside of your property in Mitcham, by fitting or updating cooker hoods, extractors and air bricks, will help you to remedy this issue.

By performing a comprehensive damp proofing survey, a reliable Mitcham company will identify any spots where moist air is drawn in from outside, simply contributing to the issue. So as to control condensation problems, it's vital that air circulation in the home is properly regulated, and by talking to a specialist on this subject, you'll be able to get advice and information for solving these issues.

RISING DAMP

Ever since 1875, a damp proof course or membrane has been fitted as standard in all houses constructed in the UK. It is perfectly possible that you might not have one fitted if your property in Mitcham was built in the years before this. If your property was built after this year, but you're still suffering with rising damp, it might be that the damp proof course or membrane has been compromised.

Rising damp can be notoriously hard to identify, but some things to watch out for are; crumbling or rotten skirting boards, a white powdery deposit appearing on walls or being discovered on floor surfaces and "tide marks" on walls. Although the existence of these isn't conclusive, they are all clear indications of rising damp problems.

Simply checking your outside walls to find out if you have a damp proof course can be the first step towards managing your rising damp problems. To be sure of an adequate degree of protection the damp course ought to be above ground level by at least 150 millimetres (approximately six inches). If this is not the case you can dig the ground away to generate this gap, or if this isn't possible, you could put in a DPM higher up.

You could have more challenging issues if you find that your DPM is OK, and it might be that the moisture is rising up from the ground, through your flooring, and into the walls, which can be even more worrying.

Mitcham damp proofing experts will swiftly be able to figure out the cause of your rising damp issues, and using a number of different methods will soon fix the problem. Older houses which either don't have a DPM at all, or have a compromised one which is damaged over a substantial area, can have a damp proof cream injected into the external walls. This special cream is injected with a nozzle into evenly spaced holes drilled along the mortar course, and before the cream sets it turns into liquid and soaks into the adjoining brickwork forming a barrier that is repellent to water.

If the damp proof cream is not appropriate, or the damage is too extensive to your membrane, a new damp proof course may have to be put in. Unfortunately this is the most extreme of repair works, but it could be the only solution to your rising damp.

For smaller areas of damp course damage, yet another potential remedy would be to coat with a waterproof (bitumen based) latex emulsion paint. Because this is applied underneath any existing floor coverings, tiles, wood flooring and carpets will have to be lifted before this operation can begin. Also used as a part of the tanking procedure to create a waterproof space, this is an especially efficacious treatment in basements. Your Mitcham damp proof specialist may recommend the use of building paper (a special foil backed membrane) before the bitumen paint has completely dried, extra protection in those problem areas.

Tanking: Tanking a room, like a basement or cellar, is a process of coating exposed surfaces in a waterproof paint. This should be applied on the base surface of walls and floors, so any wall covering and plaster must be removed and the appropriate surfaces correctly prepared before work commences. When this coating has been applied, it should be allowed to dry completely before replastering and decorating over the top of it. You should always get more than one expert opinion on whether this is the only remedy for your rising damp, since this is an incredibly disruptive job since it has to be applied to an entire basement level or ground floor of a building.

SOLVING DAMP WITH A DEHUMIDIFIER

Dehumidifiers are a highly effective way to remove moisture from the air, hence for condensation problems they can be of help. The main drawback with dehumidifier use in attempting to reduce mould and damp is that they primarily hide the cause of the damp, don't cure it. To obtain the most reliable advice if you are suffering from damp or mould in any area of your home, you should call on a professional damp proofing specialist in Mitcham.

FINDING A RELIABLE DAMP PROOF COMPANY IN MITCHAM

The best recommendations for professionals when it comes to home improvements are normally friends and relatives. When possible you should always try to get at least two or three different quotations from a range of companies, and before signing up for any specific damp proof services, you can ask to see qualifications and professional memberships, as a verification of their credibility.

Watch out for qualifications and membership from bodies such as the Damp Proofing Association or the Property Care Association, or contractors holding the CSTDB (Certificated Surveyor of Timber and Dampness) or the Certificated Surveyor in Remedial Treatments qualifications.

Membership of the DPA or PCA guarantees that your selected damp proofing specialist is well qualified and has acquired the required experience to carry out a first class damp proof service. This also offers guarantees on any remedial work carried out by one of their membership.

Black Mould

Black mould is a common problem in homes in Mitcham, particularly those made out of timber. This fungus is often considered to be toxic. It produces slime heads and conidia, which are a sign of its presence. If you discover this type of mould in your home in Mitcham, it's vital that you remove it straight away. If you think you could have black mould, it is important to have it checked by a professional. Licensed damp proofing specialists in Mitcham can conduct surveys and provide you with a free estimate. If you are concerned that the mould problem is affecting your health, a damp proof service will do an inspection to ascertain the severity of the problem.

Fortunately, there are quite a few techniques for eliminating black mould. The first method uses white vinegar, which is an environmentally-friendly solution. You can apply neat vinegar to large areas, or mix it fifty, fifty with water for small sections. Once applied, the solution should stay on the mould for sixty minutes before wiping off.

Another technique involves increasing air flow inside your home. It's thought that black mould is more likely to become a problem in parts of the house that lack adequate ventilation. Even though this can't completely eliminate the risk, it's still important to make certain that the air is flowing out of the house as much as possible. Open up the windows so that fresh air can flow in and out.

Another alternative is the use of a water and baking soda paste to treat the black mould. This has a pH of 2.5, making it an effective antibacterial solution. Hydrogen peroxide is another treatment that can be useful for eliminating black mould. It's a natural, 3 in 1 solution that is safe to use, particularly on porous surfaces.

Dehumidifier Installation

If you want to keep indoor air quality healthy and comfortable, especially in places with high humidity levels, dehumidifiers are indispensable. Without correct installation, the unit's performance and longevity will be compromised.

Choosing a location that is unobstructed and has a nearby electric socket is crucial before installing a dehumidifier. The unit must be positioned on a flat surface and kept away from furniture and walls to ensure adequate air circulation.

Next, the drainage system must be set up properly to prevent overflow or water damage. The process may involve connecting the dehumidifier to a drain or attaching a hose to the unit. The effective operation of the appliance necessitates routine maintenance, such as cleaning or replacing the filter.

To ensure a safe and successful dehumidifier installation, it's advisable to consult the manufacturer's instructions or seek professional assistance. Indoor air quality can be improved, moisture-related problems reduced, and overall comfort enhanced in homes or workplaces through proper dehumidifier installation and upkeep.

Cementitious Tanking

In underground spaces and basements, cementitious tanking is a favoured method of preventing moisture penetration. To the walls and floors of the area, a cement-based water-resistant system is applied as part of this process. Available in a range of grades suitable for various substrates, the tanking material can be mixed at the work site or pre-manufactured.

Cementitious tanking can provide a durable and long-lasting barrier against water ingress, but correct application is essential to achieve the best possible outcome. It is essential to make sure that the surface is dry, clean and free from any loose material or contaminants before application.

For a high-quality and long-lasting outcome, it is advisable to opt for professional installation by a qualified damp proofing specialist. With proper installation, cementitious tanking can be an effective and dependable solution for waterproofing cellars and underground spaces in Mitcham. By routinely inspecting the system and addressing any damage or wear, moisture penetration can be prevented and its effectiveness maintained.

DPC Replacement Mitcham

Safeguarding the structural integrity and visual appeal of your Mitcham property hinges on the timely replacement of a deteriorating Damp Proof Course (DPC). Over time, the existing DPC may become compromised, potentially leading to the onset of rising damp. Careful monitoring for signs like damp spots, deteriorating brickwork or crumbling plaster is crucial. DPC replacement involves removing the old, ineffective barrier and installing a new, robust one. This process typically requires professional expertise, as it necessitates precision and thoroughness to ensure a reliable seal against moisture ingress.

The choice of materials for the new Damp Proof Course can vary, from traditional methods like slate or bitumen to more modern options such as chemical injections. Properly executed DPC replacement not only prevents further moisture-related damage but also helps maintain a healthy indoor environment and preserves the value of your Mitcham property. Regular inspections and timely DPC replacement can go a long way in ensuring your home remains structurally sound and dry. (40713 DPC Replacement Mitcham)

Mitcham Damp Proofing Tasks

There are a wide array of tasks that can be undertaken by your local Mitcham damp proofing specialist including damp proofing a garage, damp proofing services, the treament of efflorescence, damp proofing in bathrooms, PIV (positive input ventilation), basement tanking, damp proofing injection cream applications, solutions for black mould, invasive weed control, condensation solutions Mitcham, cavity wall tie replacement, damp proof membranes, damp control, flood defence, damp proofing old stone walls, rendering repairs in Mitcham, pressure grouting, vapour barriers, leak detection, cheap damp proofing Mitcham, landlord damp proofing services, foundation damp proofing, dehumidifier installation in Mitcham, property preservation in Mitcham, damp proof tanking, commercial tanking, timber surveys, damp proofing walls, domestic damp proofing Mitcham, defective damp proof course replacement, chemical DPC injection, damp proofing rates, basement damp proofing Mitcham, condensation treatment, damp proofing a cellar, resolving mould problems, and lots more. These are just a small portion of the duties that are conducted by those doing damp proofing. Mitcham specialists will tell you about their entire range of damp proofing services.

Damp Proofing Near Mitcham

Also find: The Wythe damp proofing, Morden damp proofing, Streatham damp proofing, Rosehill damp proofing, Carshalton damp proofing, St Helier damp proofing, Mitcham Junction damp proofing, Eastfields damp proofing, Merton Abbey damp proofing, Hackbridge damp proofing, Waddon damp proofing and more.

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