Identifying Rising damp
Rising damp is a very serious problem and if it exists it will not go away unless you address it.
It occurs where there is uncontrolled water leakage. Bricks and plaster are porous and they slowly absorb the water. As the water content rises it spreads out and up. Over time the structural integrity of the wall is impaired through having water rise through the brick work.
The bricks lose their strength (in extreme cases you can even poke a finger into it) and, unmanaged, the end result will likely be collapse.
Efflorescence
If you see a white powdery substance this is efflorescence and is a clear indication of water seepage.
Efflorescence can occur in many different environments and once the
situation has reached this stage you have a major problem that WILL NOT
GO AWAY.
If you have noticed this white powdery substance and you suspect it may relate to a water seepage problem call us immediately .
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Where you find Rising damp and efflorescence
Rising damp is most often found in older solid brick houses. These older homes often have inadequate or inoperative storm water drains causing water seepage option through multiple accesses.
If you have the old style earthenware storm water drains we recommend you watch carefully for movement due to tree roots. As the drains weaken the roots find a way in to get to the water inside. This causes the pipes to change shape and / or get blocked. If the water can’t drain away in the normal fashion it pools, overflows, and or seeps out and if this is near an older brick building rising damp is almost inevitable.
Leaking waste pipes are a separate but equally common problem in older homes.
Some Does and Don’ts to minimise your risk of rising dampDoes
- Do check your drainpipes are all clear and the water is getting away.
- Do inspect your roof gutters regularly
- Do keep your gutters clear and clean
Don’ts
- Don’t ignore wet carpet or floor areas in the next room – it’s coming from somewhere and it isn’t going to stop.
- Don't have plants and a water sprinkling system right next to the house’s brickwork. This is a recipe for disaster.
- Don’t walk on to balconies that you suspect may be rotten or structural unsound. Call the waterproofing experts
and we'll check it for you.
- Don’t ignore a tile that falls off the wall. There’s a reason it fell and there may be water in behind the tile.
- Don’t ignore any swelling of skirting boards, plaster etc.
- Don’t put plants up against the wall or near where you know drain pipes will be.
Ask us to find you a waterproofing specialist in your area.
info@waterproofingaustralia.com.au
(03) 9016 9530
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Waterproofing 
