Many people claim to be damp experts and form an opinion of the reason for the rising damp issues. Some might possibly have an agenda to flog a new damp proof course, or others might want to flog a considerable amount of lime plaster. In my opinion from many years of experience, and analytical work following BRE Digest 245, some of these opinions by others can be of no value, despite large damp survey fees.
I’ll tell you what we do different….. For a start it is well documented that BRE DIGEST 245, using gravimetrics (taking plaster samples) is the only way to to get quantitative moisture data to form an opinion by data on damp issues, so you can understand capillary moisture and hygroscopic moisture. A carbide meter or a damp meter don’t offer this.
We have a range of leak detection equipment, and also carry out CCTV drain surveys. I’ve lost count the amount of times we’ve found leaking pipes buried in floors, and damaged drains.
Drain survey images
Blocked drains that have caused rising damp issues
Poorly installed drains that have caused rising damp issues
Blocked soak away and location traced along with cctv survey using a sonde equipment
Long term rising damp issues because of a leaking water main. No damp proof course needed
I have a playlist on YouTube relating to drains causing rising damp issues. Before you spend a large amount of money on damp proofing, or lime plastering it would be prudent to get a CCTV drain survey.
CCTV Drain and damp survey video
Top tip
When asking for a damp survey you need to ensure the survey is invasive and follows the methodology in BRE DIGEST 245, and if there is a genuine damp issue you will need to eliminate sources like drains and possible leaks. If these specialist damp related surveys are not being offered as well, you need to think why.
If you need a damp survey contact us on 01225 769215
Or email enquiries@completepreservation.co.uk