Rising damp is the movement of moisture upwards through walls, driven by capillary action. This type of dampness often leads to unsightly damage, including the deterioration of internal decorations, timber decay, and increased heat loss through the wall. The rising moisture from the ground carries hygroscopic salts, such as chlorides and nitrates, that absorb moisture from the air, making the wall damp in conditions of high humidity. This cyclical process of salt crystallisation and rewetting breaks down plaster and ruins internal decorations, requiring the removal and replacement of the plaster.
How to Identify Rising Damp
Rising damp typically manifests through the following signs:
✔ Damp patches on walls, particularly at floor level.
✔ Peeling or blistering paint and wallpaper.
✔ Efflorescence (white powdery deposits) on the wall surface.
✔ Damage to timber, including rot and decay.
✔ Warped or cracked plaster.
Common Causes of Rising Damp
Rising dampness is caused by moisture moving up through the masonry of a building. The primary factors contributing to rising damp are:
Poor or absent damp-proof courses (DPC).
Defective or missing external drainage systems.
High external ground levels that breach the damp-proof course.
Inadequate ventilation, leading to trapped moisture.
Rising Damp Treatment Methods
At Olympic Surveyors, we provide comprehensive solutions for treating rising damp. Our approach includes:
✔ Survey and Diagnosis – We conduct a thorough survey to ensure the issue is rising damp and not caused by another moisture defect.
✔ Chemical Damp-Proof Courses (DPC) – We apply chemical DPCs to create a barrier against moisture rising through the walls.
✔ Plaster Replacement & Renovation – We remove damaged plaster and replace it with BBA-accredited, salt-resistant plasters.
✔ Moisture Management – We provide solutions such as ventilation systems and external drainage improvements to prevent recurrence.
Why Choose Olympic Surveyors?
As members of the Property Care Association (PCA), we have extensive experience in dealing with rising damp and other moisture-related issues. Our certified surveyors use advanced diagnostic tools to deliver tailored, long-lasting solutions to protect your property.
Book Your Rising Damp Survey Today
If you suspect rising damp in your property, don’t wait for further damage. Contact Olympic Surveyors for a professional survey and expert treatment solutions.
Specialist Surveyors with expertise in cavity wall assessments.
Multi-award-winning PCA members , regulated by RICS.
State-of-the-art diagnostic tools ensuring accurate results.
Tailored remedial solutions for long-term property protection.
If you suspect wall tie failure or structural movement, contact Olympic Construction Ltd for a professional wall tie inspection.Early detection and expert remediation ensure the stability and longevity of your
