Research shows that up to 80% of UK homes have problems due to dampness. Generally, dampness in buildings can be divided into the 3 main categories of condesation damp, penetrating damp and rising damp. They can be caused by a wide range of factors and although most of these problems are not as serious as they look they can cause health problems and get progressively worse if left untreated. Regular inspection and maintenance of the exterior of the home can often identify the cause of visible interior dampness in buildings.

Rising damp usually occurs in houses that have either not got a damp proof course or the damp proof course has failed. It is caused by water soaking into floors and walls of the property in an upward movement called capillarity, which is the same process that trees move water from the roots to the top, but rarely rises more than one metre high.

Any wall that is in contact with the ground can suffer from the effects of rising damp and can be identified in a number of ways. Internally, skirting and floor boards rot, plaster flakes off, paint or wallpaper wont stick and tide marks appear on the walls. Externally, mortar falls out from between bricks and white stains appear on the walls. Structural damage can result from extensive rising damp.

When a building problem has resulted in water entering the property penetrating damp usually occurs. It can cause extreme dampness in buildings, affecting walls, roofs and ceilings. Usually, evidence of the dampness appears during wet weather and a water mark may develop and grow if the water continues to enter. If not corrected, the problem will progressively deteriorate. This can be difficult to pin point, often requiring expert help, but once the problem has been rectified the likelihood of further penetrating damp is greatly minimised.

Condensation dampness is unlike penetrating and rising damp because it is caused by too much moisture, that can’t escape from the property. Mainly caused by the inhabitants, rather than problems with the building, it is often accompanied by a strong musty smell and black mould. Condensation, dampness in buildings, is a result of high moisture content due to bathing, cooking, drying clothes and/or inadequate heating. As the temperature drops, the capacity to retain the water vapour diminishes and the condensation damp is immediately visible on surfaces such as ceramics and glass. To manage condensation dampness in buildings ensure that your home is adequately heated, walls are insulated and ventilation is increased.

The conditions that result in dampness in buildings can be easily avoided with a little thought. Most homes are affected at some point, with certain activities increasing the problem. Lack of regular maintenance can be a prime cause, especially if blocked pipes and gutters are causing an overflow of water that is penetrating and adversely affecting a building. If it is necessary to repair your existing damp proof course or install a new one always take advice from an expert first.