FAQ
Rising damp questions, answered.
Common questions from homeowners about rising damp, damp proof courses, and what treatment actually involves.
What is rising damp?+
Rising damp is groundwater drawn up through the porous structure of a wall by capillary action. It typically affects the bottom of walls and leaves visible tide marks, salt deposits and damaged plaster.
How do I know it's rising damp and not condensation?+
Rising damp shows up low on the wall, usually below the first metre, often with a clear horizontal tide mark and salt deposits. Condensation tends to appear higher up — around windows, on cold corners, and behind furniture. A proper survey is the only reliable way to tell.
Does every old house have rising damp?+
No. Many older homes are misdiagnosed. Failed original damp proof courses do occur, but bridging, defective render, blocked airbricks and condensation are equally common causes of similar-looking symptoms.
What does a damp proof course injection involve?+
Modern cream-based DPC injection is low-disruption: small holes are drilled along the mortar bed and a silicone-based cream is inserted that diffuses into the masonry to form a continuous water-repellent barrier.
Will I need to replaster?+
If plaster has been contaminated by hygroscopic salts brought up by rising damp, it usually needs to be removed and reinstated with a salt-resistant system. We'll explain exactly what's needed before any work begins.
How long do treatments last?+
A properly installed chemical damp proof course should last for decades. We back our installations with a long-term written guarantee.
Will the work be messy?+
We work cleanly, sheet up, and tidy as we go. Some dust is unavoidable when removing plaster, but we keep disruption to a minimum.
Do you cover my area?+
We cover a wide range of towns and cities across the UK. Check our Areas We Cover page or request a quote — we'll confirm whether we can attend your address.