Best Methods of Damp Proofing a Building Depending on Construction
Damp proofing of both domestic and commercial structures, although not the most glamorous aspect of a construction project, is still a vital part of the build process to get right. New build properties will, unless there has been a negligent moment by a contractor or architect, will have a physical isolation membrane around 150mm above external ground level (a damp proof course or DPC). This acts to prevent capillary movement of moisture rising higher than the barrier and effectively damp proofs the property above this barrier. So if the building has no earth bridging above the DPC and no leaking pipes, gutters or flashing, then you should have no problems in terms of damp proofing. It's all relatively straight forward. Physical membranes as a vertical separation layer or DPC construction has been a standard in all brick and blockwork construction for well over 50 years. Older properties or properties built out of stone or rubble have significant challenges when it comes to ...