"Say goodbye to rising damp in your Sydney property forever"
With our combination of damp proof course remediation and sub floor ventilation, you can say goodbye to rising damp in your home forever. Our professionalism and customer focussed attitude will guarantee your peace of mind.
Minimally Invasive Method
Compared to other systems our process is fast, creates less mess and inconvenience for the customer. We use the latest damp remediation technologies from Europe.
Professional Service
We thought it's time the damp industry became professional and customer focussed. No more late for appointments, bad attitude, messy work and rubbery quotes. We dont supply "estimates" we supply fixed price quotes.
Latest European Technology
We use the latest European technology in damp proof barrier remdeiation. Dryzone creams and rods are scientifically proven to be the fastest and most effective barrier to rising damp on the market. Our sub floor vents allow 6 x airflow of traditonal terracotta vents.
Rising damp in Sydney
Questions we are commonly asked:
- What exactly is rising damp?Put simply it is the absorption of water from the soil by brick or concrete walls by capillary action. The ground moisture rises up the wall untill it reaches above floor level then evaporates into your home interior. The structural damage isn’t caused by the water but by the minerals and salts it leaves behind when it evaporates.
- Can rising damp be permenantly fixed?Yes it can. With a new damp proof course and added sub floor ventilation, in the majority of cases rising damp will be gone forever.
- What are other factors that contribute to rising damp?Anything that adds moisture to the soil or stops it drying out can be a contributor to risng damp.
- No or failed damp proof course. (Common in older properties)
- Lack of sub floor ventilation.
- Rain water pooling under the house.
- Yard falling toward the house where the soil is nearly always damp.
- A plumbing leak or blocked drain in the vicinity of the house wall.
- A bridged damp proof course by render or similar.
- Is rising damp expensive to fix?Lets start with a fact. Rising damp is not cheap to fix but thats relative to other determining factors: value of the property, the extent of the damp etc. Considering the damage it can do to walls and other building elements and potential health issues to your family and your own health it is considered money well spent. Also it could be considered that you have added value to to your home. In an area where almost all houses experience rising damp issues (older areas of Sydney), imagine showing potential buyers that you have zero rising damp and have eradicated it. Thats a great selling point.
- How do you tell if you have rising damp?There are a few factors that signal risng damp. Depending on the severity you could have one or more of the following:
- A musty smell when your house has been closed.
- Staining to lower walls.
- Peeling wall paper or bubbling paint on lower walls.
- Condensation after rain.
- Presence of black mould.
- Rotting skirting boards in severe cases.
- What if rising damp is left untreated?As the moisture accumulates in and throughout your walls, it can rot skirting boards, remove paint, damage the plaster or gyprock of your walls and even potentially cause the masonry of your render and between your brickwork to deteriorate. The longer you wait to fix your rising damp, the more money you’ll have to spend on repair. Fix your rising damp as soon as you can.
- Why should i use your business?When i started this business i wanted to bring some professionalism to the industry. Which is very much needed. What does that mean? This is what i experienced when i was attempting to have rising damp on my own property repaired:I have been invloved in the building industry for over 30 years and have seen how many trades operate. I can say with confidence the rising damp are among the worse i’ve seen. So our mission is to change that. One rising damp repair at a time.
- People just not turning up for quotes.
- Or turning up late with no notice.
- Lack of communication.
- Messy and dirty workers turning up to quote.
- Not staying with quoted prices.
- Low quality work.
- Not cleaning up after work has been done.
- Absolutely no focus on the customer and their needs.
- Why is the term “salt damp” sometimes used for rising damp?The somewhat old fashioned term “salt damp” refers to the minerals and salts from the soil that is left behind when the moisture eveaporates. It is this salt that causes the damage associated with rising damp.
- How long do i need to wait to plaster or paint my walls after the rising damp is fixed?It usually takes up to two months before the exisiting moisture in your wall evaporates after the rising damp is eradicated. Determing factors are:
- How severe the rising damp is.
- The make up the wall itself. Type of brick, concrete, stud wall plaster etc
- The amount of natural ventilation to the area. In a house that is always closed it will take longer.
- The amount of sub floor ventilation.
How to Fix Rising Damp in Sydney
Are you dealing with rising damp in your Sydney home? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
In this article, we’ll show you how to fix the problem and prevent it from happening again. You’ll learn about the signs of moisture ingress, the causes behind it, and the steps you can take to effectively treat and repair it.
Say goodbye to dampness and hello to a dry, healthy home!
Signs of a Rising Damp Issue
If you suspect damp in your Sydney home, look out for common signs such as:
- Damp patches on lower walls or ceilings. These patches may appear as discolored areas or have a musty odor.
- Paint peeling or bubbling, or wallpaper starting to loosen.
- The presence of mold or mildew on surfaces. In some cases, you might see white, powdery deposits on the affected areas.
- Wallpaper or plaster starting to crumble or become damaged.
- Visibly damaged or missing damp proof course – also known as a damp course or DPC.
- It’s important to address these signs promptly to prevent further damage and ensure a healthy living environment.
Understanding the Causes of Rising Damp
To fully understand the causes, it’s essential to recognise that this issue commonly occurs due to a combination of factors.
One of the main causes is the lack of an effective damp-proof course (DPC) in the building’s construction. This DPC is designed to prevent moisture from rising up through the walls and floors. However, if it’s absent or damaged, water can easily seep into the building materials, such as walls.
Another contributing factor is the presence of high ground levels or poor drainage around the property. When the ground becomes saturated with water, it can increase the pressure on the walls, forcing moisture to rise and enter the building.
Additionally, the use of porous building materials, such as old bricks or stone, can also exacerbate the problem by absorbing and transporting water upwards.
Sydney Rising Damp Treatment
Take these three steps to prevent rising damp in your home.
Firstly, ensure that the external ground levels are lower than the internal floor levels. This will help to prevent water from seeping into your home.
Secondly, maintain good ventilation throughout your property, specifically in the sub flor area. Proper airflow will prevent moisture buildup and discourage the growth of mold and mildew.
Lastly, invest in waterproofing measures such as damp-proof membranes and sealants. These products can be applied to walls, floors, and foundations to create a barrier against moisture.
Effective Treatments – It’s all about chemical injection
Now that you understand the steps to prevent rising damp in your home, it’s important to explore effective treatments for this issue.
A modern and very effective method to treat a damp problem is to create a barrier using a liquid chemical that is injected into bricks – below floor level. It permeates through the brick to create a permenant hard barrier to rising moisture.
The more traditional way of actually inserting a PVC barrier between bricks is considered too invasive, time consuming (and therefore expensive) and messy these days.
Additionally, improving sub floor ventilation in your home can help to reduce dampness. This can be done by installing vents to the perimeter of the sub floor, or extractor fans if it is a severe case.
Hiring Damp Proof Specialists for Repairs
If you’re experiencing rising damp problems in your home, it’s highly recommended to hire professionals for the necessary repairs. Dealing with rising damp can be a complex and challenging task that requires specialized knowledge and skills. Professionals have the expertise to accurately diagnose the extent of the problem and provide effective solutions. They’re equipped with the right tools and experience to address the root cause and prevent it from recurring.
Additionally, hiring professionals ensures that the repairs are done correctly, minimizing the risk of further damage to your property. They can also offer advice on preventative measures to protect your home from future damp issues.
Don’t hesitate to seek professional help to maintain a safe and healthy living environment. You could opt for a fully detailed inspection and survey of your property issues here.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does It Cost to Rectify Rising Damp in Sydney?
Fixing moisture issues in Sydney can be costly, depending on the severity of the issue but it is money well spent considring the health and building benefits.
It’s recommended to consult with professionals for an accurate quote. They can assess the problem and provide an estimate for the necessary repairs.
Can Rising Damp Cause Health Problems?
Yes, at higher levels it can cause health problems.
It can lead to mold growth, which can trigger allergies and respiratory issues.
It’s important to address the issue promptly to avoid further complications.
How Long Does It Take for Rising Damp to Cause Significant Damage to a Property?
All moisture ingress can cause significant damage to a property over time. It’s important to address the issue promptly to prevent further harm.
Consider seeking professional help to repair rising damp in your property.
Does Insurance Cover the Costs of Repairing Rising Damp?
Insurance may cover the costs of repairing moisture ingress to your home, but it depends on your policy. Check with your insurance provider to see if they cover moisture damage of any type. Soem do and some don’t.
If your policy does cover it, you will need to follow the necessary steps to file a claim. This typically involves documenting the damage, providing evidence of the causes, and obtaining quotes for the cost of repairs.
It’s important to note that even if your insurance policy does cover it, there may be certain exclusions or limitations. For example, some policies may only cover the cost of repairs to the structure itself and not any damage to personal belongings. Or they cover repairs to the structure but not the rectification of moisture ingress.
In addition to checking your insurance policy, it’s also a good idea to take preventative measures to minimise the risk to your home. This can include ensuring proper drainage, maintaining a good ventilation system, and regularly inspecting and maintaining the condition of your property.
Ultimately, the best course of action is to thoroughly review your insurance policy and consult with your insurance provider to fully understand what is covered and what steps you need to take in the event of moisture damage.
Are There Any DIY Methods to Fix Rising Damp?
There are DIY methods to repair. You can try using a damp-proofing paint or applying a waterproofing membrane. The reality is no DIY remedires are really successful in the long term. It’s best to consult a specialist for proper assessment and solution.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you notice signs of moisture ingress in your home, it’s crucial to address the issue promptly. By understanding the causes and taking preventative measures, you can minimise the risk of damage to your property. If the problem persists, it’s recommended to hire professionals for effective treatments and repairs. Remember, timely action is key to protecting your home from the damaging effects. Contact the damp specialists now for free advice and quotation on for your damp solutions.
7 key steps to diagnose and rectify rising damp
