How To Remove Dampness From Walls

How To Remove Dampness From Walls

Dampness

What is dampness?

Structural dampness is the presence of unwanted moisture in the structure of a building, either the result of intrusion from outside or construction from within the structure. A high proportion of damp problems in buildings are caused by ambient climate dependent factors of condensation and rain penetration. Capillary penetration of fluid from the ground up through concrete or masonry is known as Rising Damp and is governed by the shape and porosity of the construction materials through which this evaporation limited capillary penetration takes place Structural damp, regardless of the mechanisms through which it takes place, is exacerbated by higher levels of humidity.

Causes of dampness in buildings              

1.    Rain penetration

2.    Level of site

3.    Drain ability of soil  

4.    Climate condition

5.    Defective orientation of building

6.    Moisture entrapped during construction

7.    Defective construction e.g. joints

Dampness

Effects of dampness in buildings:    

1.    Causes rotting of wood.

2.    Causes corrosion of metallic fixtures.

3.    Deteriorate electric installations.

4.    Deteriorate carpet & furniture’s.

5.    Causes spots on the floors and walls.

6.    Causes petting off and removal of plaster.

7.    Causes bleaching and blistering of paints.

8.    Causes effloresce.

9.    Dangerous for the health of occupants (Asthma)  to growth of microbes such as moulds, fungi and bacteria

10.  Reduce the life of structures

How to remove Dampness(Seelan)?

Every room should be dry and well ventilated to keep the rising problem of dampness at bay. There are varied methods to treat the problem. Most popular ways are listed below, have a look:

·         Damp Proofing: It is essential to keep the foundation dry to avoid dampness. So a continuous layer of waterproof mortar can be installed to make a proper DPC. The damp proof course can be installed by removing a line of bricks near the floor level and by inserting the waterproof mortar.

·         Avoid leakage: Make sure the rainwater pipes are tightly fit. Besides, all the sanitary and water supply fittings must be tight. In addition to this, rainwater should not penetrate any of the joint of the structure. If there is any space between ceiling and roof, then install proper ventilation to the area.

·         Repair and re-plaster the surface: If there is an affected area in your house then use some waterproof plaster or cement mixture to repair the surface. Re-plaster process can be done with the help of delivery tubes, simply put the tubes near the walls and transfuse the liquid, the liquid will work as a membrane and a strong barrier against moisture and dampness.