How do I know if my damp proof course has failed?

What does a damp proof course do?

Your damp proof course is an essential aspect of damp proofing and is what keeps your home free from damp problems, specifically rising damp.

If your home does not have a damp proof course installed at all or has a damp proof course that is in need of repair, then you make your home vulnerable to rising damp and the problems and damage that comes with it.

What are the signs of a faulty damp proof course?

The appearance of rising damp in your home is an obvious sign that your damp proof course is in need of repair or replacement and becomes visible in a number of ways:

• A damp tide mark, typically up to 1.5m high on your inner wall, external wall, or both caused by groundwater gradually rising through the porous surface of your brickwork
• Damaged skirting boards
• Peeling wallpaper
• Salt deposits on wall
•  Blistering or peeling paint
• Mould growth

What should I do if I spot signs of rising damp?

Rising damp is a clear sign that you need a professional damp proof course repair service, as otherwise your damp problem will only continue to get worse over time.

Undertaking any repair or refurbishment work on your internal wall before repairing your damp proof course is a waste of your time and money, as rising damp will resurface again in future.

• Why you should never ignore signs of damp
• How does a damp proofing chemical injection work?
• Do you know the most common causes of damp?

If you are unsure if your damp proof course requires repair or if your home even has one in the first place, our damp experts can help! We are on hand to solve all your problems with damp across Dorset and Hampshire. Get in touch today on 01202 737739.