Case Studies

Croft Preservation was contacted by St Peter & St Paul’s Parish Church in Ringwood to transform their basement into a usable, watertight boiler room.

Built between 1853-5, St Peter & St Paul’s is a Grade II listed building thanks to its historical and architectural significance. Due to the lack of required surface preparation techniques, a damp proofing membrane provided the perfect method for damp prevention, as it would cause minimal damage.

The method

Our team got to work and cleared the basement of debris before installing a full Newton 508 cavity drain waterproofing system. Once excellent benefit of choosing this system is the fact that minimal repair and preparation work was required for the interior walls, making it a very cost-effective option for the client.

The perimeter drainage channel at the wall/floor junction directs any water ingress to the sump pump, which is located below the concrete slab that we also installed. This pump then harmlessly removes the water from the building. In order to make the basement conversion more energy efficient, we also insulated the walls and floor with insulation board. The end result – a fully dry and useable basement boiler room.

Expert basement tanking services

If you require basement tanking services in Dorset or Hampshire, our team are happy to help. We are a family-run business dedicated to providing both commercial and residential clients with the best possible service. Contact us today to arrange a quote on 01202 737739.

As wood rot repair specialists, we were contacted by our client to carry out a timber survey, due to movement in the flooring of the lounge bay area. Following our investigation, we were able to identify the type of damp present, along with resolving the issue through Croft Preservation’s expert treatment and repair services.

IDENTIFYING THE ROT ISSUE

After further investigation, we discovered that there was wet rot decay to the ends of the floor joist and surrounding floorboards. This was caused by the lack of sub floor ventilation as well as timbers being in close contact with damp masonry.

RESOLVING THE WET ROT ISSUE

We removed the defective floorboards and supporting joists and replaced them by installing a damp-proof course that was inserted in conjunction with the tanalised timber floor joist.

We then took the opportunity to insulate between the joists to add better thermal value to the floor. This was then finished with a moisture-resistant caber floor. The floor was then left ready to be finished by the client’s preferred floor covering provider.

POST-WORK PROCEDURE

As standard procedure at Croft Preservation, we undertook precautionary measures to ensure that our client’s floors and furnishings were continuously protected. Following the completion of the works, we thoroughly cleaned the flooring to leave it spotless, ready for the client’s preferred floor covering.

The damp proof-course we installed is guaranteed for 20 years, meaning no follow-up maintenance will be required.

CONTACT OUR WET ROT EXPERTS TODAY

If you’re concerned about wood rot that may be the result of damp, do not hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team today on 01202 737739. For more information about what our damp surveys consist of, please visit our FAQs page.

As damp proofing specialists, we were called on by our client to carry out a full damp survey on the ground floor of a terraced property in Poole. From there, we advised on our findings and carried out remedial rising damp treatment.

Assessing the damp problem

The client contacted us because they were concerned about damp in their home. We carried out a full damp survey of their ground floor property, and our surveyors found that there were high moisture meter readings on the lower parts of various walls.

The damp problem… and our solution!

The location and pattern of the moisture told our experts that the issue was rising damp. The cause of this was identified as a breakdown of the original slate damp proof course.

To address this issue, we provided remedial rising damp treatment. First, we removed the defective render and plaster back to the masonry in the affected areas. We then installed a new chemical damp proof course, to prevent further rising damp issues. To finish, we tanked and rendered the masonry with a lightweight water proof render system and specialist breathable plaster.

The results

As we always do, we took precautionary measures to ensure that the customer’s floors and furnishings were protected at all times. After the work was completed, we provided a final clean to leave the property spotless.

The damp proof course we installed is guaranteed for 20 years, so no follow-up maintenance will be required.

Get in touch with our damp proofing experts today

If you’re concerned about damp in your home, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team today on 01202 737739. For more information about what our damp surveys entail, please visit our FAQs page.

As specialists in damp proofing treatment, we were asked to conduct a full damp survey for a property in Charminster, Bournemouth. Having determined the issue, we advised our findings to the client, along with the recommendation to carry out damp proofing treatment.

EVALUATING THE DAMP ISSUE

Following our full damp survey of the property, our surveyors found that there were damp issues on the lower parts of one of the building’s walls.

HOW WE FIXED THE DAMP PROBLEM WITH OUR DAMP PROOFING TREATMENT

To fix the damp problem issue, we provided damp proofing treatment. First, we removed the defective render and plaster back to the masonry in the affected areas. We then installed a new chemical damp proof course to prevent further damp problems arising.

Finally, we tanked and rendered the masonry with a lightweight waterproof render system and specialist breathable plaster.

THE RESULTS

Like we always do, we took preventative measures to ensure the customer’s floors and furnishings were protected at all times. After the work was completed, we provided a thorough floor clean to leave the property spotless.

The installed damp proof course is guaranteed for 20 years, with no follow-up maintenance required.

GET IN TOUCH WITH OUR DAMP PROOFING EXPERTS TODAY

If you’re worried about damp in your property, contact our friendly team today on 01202 737739. For more information about what our damp surveys entail, please visit our FAQs page.

We were asked to assess a property in Wimborne Road, Ferndown for potential damp proofing treatment. Read on to learn the outcome of our full damp survey, as well as how we remedied the issue.

THE RESULTS OF THE DAMP SURVEY

Having conducted our full damp survey, we discovered a number of damp issues on several walls within the Ferndown property.

HOW WE FIXED THE DAMP PROBLEM WITH OUR CHEMICAL DAMP PROOF COURSE

To fix the damp problem issue, we removed all the damp-affected plaster. We then injected a new chemical damp proof course and applied our specialist waterproofing render and plaster system.

Finally, we fitted some neat skirting boards for a tidy and professional finish.

THE RESULTS

We made sure that the resident’s furniture and kitchen appliances were well-protected throughout the carrying of our works. After we completed the works, we provided a thorough floor clean to leave the property spotless.

Croft’s installed damp proof course is guaranteed for 20 years, with no follow-up maintenance required.

GET IN TOUCH WITH OUR DAMP PROOF COURSE SPECIALISTS TODAY

If you’re worried about damp in your property, contact our friendly team to arrange your damp survey today on 01202 737739. For more information about what our damp surveys entail, please visit our FAQs page.

A resident in Burnaby Road, Westbourne reached out to us in May 2022, having spotted signs of damp in their ground floor flat. They asked us to carry out a full survey of their property to see what the issue was.

Using a moisture metre, we inspected the rooms of the property. High readings were found when scanning lower down the walls – a clear indicator of rising damp. We also noticed the flat was impacted by penetrating damp, likely due to a high external ground level.

If you’re not sure how to tell varieties of damp apart, read our guide to the differences between rising and penetrating damp.

In this case, both types of damp were caused by the original slate damp proof course breaking down.

When considering possible approaches, we decided the best course of action would be to remove the contaminated material and apply a fresh damp proofing course. This would repel moisture and prevent issues like mould and fungi growth.

THE METHOD

First, we equipped proper PPE and cleared the affected rooms of furniture. Anything that could not be moved was protected with a secure cover.

Then came the treatment itself. To deal with the rising damp, we carefully removed the defective render and plaster, stripping the walls back to masonry. We then installed a chemical damp proofing course to prevent the damp from returning.

Damp proofing creates a barrier between moisture in the air and the external brickwork of a property. In this case, it involved injecting a silicone-based formulation into a series of holes we drilled into the base of the walls.

The masonry was then tanked and covered with a lightweight render system.

To deal with the walls affected by penetrating damp, we installed a cavity membrane system. Cavity membranes are used to control water after it has penetrated the structure, and is the best line of defence against penetrating damp returning.

After installing the membrane, we constructed a frame to hold the membrane in place. We then dry lined it, and finished it off with a plaster coating.

Once the plaster had fully dried, the flat was free from the hazards posed by rising and penetrating damp, making it safe to live in once more.

SPECIALISTS IN DAMP TREATMENT AND PREVENTION

If you’ve noticed damp in your home, don’t leave it unchecked. Get it looked at as soon as you spot the warning signs. The quicker it’s treated, the easier it is to get rid of.

At Croft, damp prevention and treatment is our bread and butter. We’re specialists in identifying and removing damp from all types of property, and will protect your home from future problems with our powerful damp proofing courses.

With our extensive training and over four decades of experience, you can trust us to make your home safe again.

Book a property survey today, either online or by calling us at 01202 737739.

In May 2022, we were reached out to by a homeowner in St Luke Road, Winton. They were worried about signs of damp in the front reception of their property, and asked us to carry out a survey of all the rooms affected.

After we performed a thorough inspection of the rooms, we discovered high moisture readings low on several walls – a telltale sign of rising damp. The cause was a breakdown of the original damp proof course.

Rising damp can pose a number of risks to both the building and the health of its inhabitants, so it’s important to get it treated as soon as possible.

To tackle the damp, a remedial treatment was needed. We planned to remove the contaminated render and plaster, then install a chemical damp proof course to prevent further rising damp issues.

Wondering if you have damp in your own house? Read through our damp FAQs for a rundown on the warning signs to look out for.

THE METHOD

As always, we started by taking precautionary measures. This involved equipping PPE, clearing out objects that could get in the way, and protecting the client’s floor and furnishings with a secure cover.

Once the room was protected, it was time to get to work. We carefully removed the damp-infected render and plaster, clearing it from the room for disposal.

Once all the plaster was gone and the masonry revealed, we applied tanking to the entirety of the masonry. This would keep out moisture and prevent the damp from returning.

Next, we adhered a lightweight waterproof render to the wall, further protecting it against damp.

The final step was plastering the wall. Once the render had dried, we applied a coating of specialist breathable plaster, which we then smoothed and left to dry. If the plaster we used was not breathable, condensation could build-up behind it. This could lead to damp and cracking of the plaster.

With the job complete, the furnishings could be uncovered and the room restored to its original state. The owner now had a dry and safe property, free from damp and the hazards it can pose.

This system is guaranteed with Croft for a period of 20 years, so no follow up maintenance was required.

EXPERIENCED DAMP PROOFING EXPERTS

Have you spotted the warning signs of rising damp in your home? If so, Croft can help.

With nearly four decades’ experience in damp treatment and prevention, we’re experts at diagnosing and treating damp in all types of building. After clearing all damp from your home, we can apply a highly effective damp proof course to protect it long into the future.

Protect the health of you and your loved ones by getting your damp treated today. Book a property survey online or by calling us at 01202 737739.

Recently, Croft was approached by a homeowner in Lowther Gardens, Charminster who was concerned about moisture in their flooring. They asked us to perform a survey of their property to identify potential problems.

A full inspection of their flooring confirmed their fears: high moisture readings were found in their concrete and timber floors. The concrete was infected with damp, while the timber was affected by wet rot decay. Both were caused by a lack of proper damp proofing.

If left unchecked, rot and damp can wreak havoc on a building’s structure, as well as the health of its inhabitants. It’s crucial you get your property looked at as soon as possible if you spot signs of rot or damp, because the longer they are left to spread, the harder they are to treat.

Treating the damp and rot would require removing and disposing of the affected areas, applying a damp proof course, and laying new flooring on top.

THE METHOD

The first step in any treatment is to take appropriate precautions. We donned PPE and cleared the floor of all rugs and furniture, so nothing would get damaged during the treatment.

With that out of the way, we began the process of removing the contaminated flooring. The concrete slabs were completely removed and destroyed, revealing the undamaged subfloor. We applied a damp proof membrane to the subfloor to prevent the damp from returning, then poured liquid concrete on top and left it to harden.

Dealing with the timber flooring was a similar process. We first removed and disposed of the rotten boards, then applied a course of damp proofing. We then replaced the wall plates, floor joists, and boards using new pre-treated timbers.

Finally, we gave the room a thorough clean and returned the furniture. The result was a clean living space with flooring free from damp and rot.

TALK TO THE DAMP AND ROT EXPERTS

Thanks to our decades of experience, we know better than anyone how to treat damp and rot in a property.

If you’ve noticed warning signs in your home, get in touch. We will perform an in-depth survey and identify exactly what the problem is, then effectively treat the affected areas, working hard to minimise the disruption to your daily life while we do.

Don’t let the problem get out of hand. Book a property survey online or by calling us at 01202 737739, and we will make sure your home is a clean and healthy space for you and your family to enjoy.

In August 2022, a property owner in West Hill Road, Bournemouth reached out to the team at Croft Preservation. They had spotted signs of damp in their ground floor flat, and asked us to carry out a full survey to find out the extent of the damage.

While inspecting their property, our surveyor discovered a buildup of moisture low on several walls. Like many cases of rising damp, the cause was a breakdown of the original slate damp proof course. Moisture was able to bypass the failed damp proofing and reach the inside of the property, only becoming visible once it had penetrated through the plaster and paint.

If left unchecked, damp can lead to serious problems down the line; the main risks are weakened walls, ruined decor, and the growth of mould. Mould is especially dangerous, as it can pose a serious threat to the health of anyone living within the property.

To deal with the client’s damp problem, we planned to strip the defective render and plaster back to the masonry, install a new chemical damp proof course, tank the masonry with a waterproof render system, and finish it with a specialist breathable plaster. Following these steps would restore the flat back to a safe and clean state, and reduce the risk of damp returning in the future.

THE METHOD

Our first step was to take care of the necessary preliminary work. We moved the majority of furniture and objects out of the room, laid an impact-proof cover over the client’s flooring, and placed sheets over any furniture that could not be removed.

Once the room was ready, we got to work stripping the walls of the defective materials. We then drilled a series of evenly-spaced holes into the bare masonry. We used these holes to inject a chemical damp proof course deep into the brickwork, which would repel damp and prevent it from rising into the internal structure of the property.

After completing the injections, we tanked the walls with a lightweight waterproof render system. This would protect against any damp that managed to get past the damp proof course. We finished off the walls with a specialist plaster designed to be breathable enough for moisture to ventilate.

Before leaving, we carried out a final clean of the room to make sure it was completely safe for inhabitation.

Ultimately, the property owner was left with clean and dry walls they could rely on to stay damp-free for years to come.

EXPERIENCED DAMP PROOFING EXPERTS

At Croft Preservation, we’ve been solving issues with damp for nearly 40 years. Our expertise means we can effectively fix and prevent any kind of damp problem within your home, while providing you with five-star customer service throughout the process.

Because our damp proofing systems are guaranteed to be fit for purpose for 20 years, you’ll have total peace of mind that your property will remain damp-free for decades to come.

Book a property survey online or by calling us at 01202 737739.

A homeowner in Blandford contacted our team as they wanted to transform their garage into a dry, usable space.

Following a thorough damp survey, we concluded that the best course of action would be to install a waterproof membrane and perimeter channel to prevent damp from affecting the internal walls. We’d then apply a waterproof epoxy coating to create a dry floor finish.

THE METHOD

First, the interior of the garage was cleared of all items and debris to create a safe and easy work environment. Then, we constructed a wooden frame for the waterproof membrane and cut the membrane to size for the internal walls.

The team then installed the waterproof membrane over the interior walls, along with a perimeter drainage channel. This channel is designed to collect water that runs down to the base of the membrane, preventing it from pooling at the junction between the wall and floor.

Once the waterproof membrane was in place, we ensured it was properly insulated by installing moisture resistant board over the top. This created a smooth, water-resistant base for plastering.

In order to ensure that the floor remained damp free, we applied a waterproof epoxy resin over the existing floor slab. Once dry, this provides a hard-wearing, non-toxic, waterproof, and easy to clean surface – perfect for a garage!

Finally, we completed the internal walls with a plaster finish and installed new skirtings, ready for the client to paint and decorate however they wished.

Contact us for damp proofing in Blandford & the surrounding area

Whether you have an existing damp problem or wish to waterproof your garage, basement, or any other area of your home, contact Croft Preservation today!

We are a family-run business with over 40 years of experience when it comes to providing damp proofing solutions. Call us today on 01202 737739 to speak to a friendly member of our team.

In May 2023, a property owner on Bradpole Road in Bournemouth called the team at Croft Preservation. They were worried about signs of damp in their semi-detached house and asked us to perform a full survey to determine the scope of the issue.

During our inspection of the property, our surveyors came across some higher-than-expected moisture readings at the lower portions of several walls – a clear indicator of rising damp. Upon closer examination of the plaster and paint layers, we realised that this was due to the original slate damp proof course breaking down. Moisture had managed to seep through the weakened damp proofing and make its way into the interior of the property.

Damp is unfortunately a common problem, impacting over a fifth of homes in the UK. If not properly taken care of, it can lead to weakened walls, ruined decor, and the unwelcome growth of mould. Mould is particularly troublesome as it can seriously affect the health of everyone living in the property, especially children, older people, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

After surveying the property, we came up with a course of action to tackle the damp problem. We planned to remove the old, defective render and plaster to reveal the masonry underneath. Then, we would put in a new chemical damp proof course to keep any moisture at bay. To add extra protection, we would then use a waterproof render system on the masonry, and finish it off with a special breathable plaster. This step-by-step approach would not only bring the flat back to a safe and clean state, but also significantly lower the chances of damp causing trouble again in the future.

THE METHOD

As always, we began by taking care of some important initial tasks. We made sure to protect the client’s flooring with a special cover. We also covered up any furniture that couldn’t be moved with sheets to keep everything safe.

Next, we removed the defective plaster from the walls, leaving it bare. We then drilled a series of evenly spaced holes into the masonry, and filled them with a chemical damp proof course. This would prevent further rising dampness.

Once we finished the injection works, we took the extra step of applying a lightweight waterproof render system to the walls. To give the walls the best protection, we then carefully applied a specialised breathable plaster. Before we left, we gave the room a final clean.

The property owner was happy to have clean and dry walls once more, giving them the confidence that their space would stay free from dampness for years to come.

EXPERIENCED DAMP PROOFING SPECIALISTS

The team at Croft Preservation have over four decades of experience in tackling damp, mould, and rot in properties throughout the South. Not only can we effectively fix and prevent various damp problems in your home, but we can also provide you with a professional level of customer service experience throughout the entire process, as well as a solid 20-year guarantee, depending on the treatment.

Ready to take the next step? Book a property survey online or simply give us a call on 01202 737739. We can’t wait to assist you!

In April 2023, a homeowner in Lindon Close, Ferndown got in touch with the team at Croft Preservation. They’d noticed some troubling signs of rot in their timber parquet flooring and were concerned about the underlying cause, so they asked us if we could perform a thorough survey to determine the extent of the damage.

While our surveyor was inspecting the property, they noticed high moisture metre readings and noticeable signs of rot throughout the flooring. They quickly determined that the culprit was a failing damp-proof membrane on the concrete floor slab under the timber. The failed membrane had allowed damp to creep up and into the wood, which only became evident once rot began to take hold.

If you don’t take care of it, damp can cause serious problems down the road. The main issues to watch out for are weakened flooring, rot (as in this case), woodworm infestations, and fungal growth.

To tackle the client’s rot problem, we planned to remove the existing parquet flooring, install a new surface membrane, and leave a sand key for the client to apply a final levelling compound. This would bring their home back to a safe and clean state, all while reducing the risk of damp coming back in the future.

THE METHOD

We began with our usual first step – taking care of the necessary preliminary tasks. We also made sure to put on the required personal protective equipment.

Next, we got to work removing the old, rotten wooden flooring from the concrete slab beneath. We made sure to safely clear away any debris and responsibly dispose of the worn-out material before moving on to the next step.

After getting the concrete slab ready, we mixed and poured a layer of liquid screed onto it and allowed it to harden. We then added a layer of liquid resin surface membrane that, once dry, would create a strong protective barrier against damp for the future.

Finally, we added a sand key to the floor surface for the client’s convenience. This small, shallow groove allowed them to easily apply a final levelling compound to smooth out any uneven spots and get rid of imperfections.

In the end, the property owner was happy to have clean and dry flooring they could count on to stay damp-free and rot-free for years to come.

EXPERIENCED DAMP PROOFING SPECIALISTS

At Croft Preservation, we’ve been successfully tackling damp issues for nearly four decades. We’re well-equipped to efficiently resolve and prevent various types of damp problems in your home, whether they’re on the floors, walls, or anywhere else. Throughout the entire process, we’re committed to delivering first-class customer service and an unbeatable level of workmanship.

Our damp proofing systems come with a reassuring 20-year guarantee, providing you with complete peace of mind that your property will remain free from damp issues for many years to come.

Ready to get started? Book a property survey online or by calling us on 01202 737739 today!

In June 2023, our team received a request from a client regarding external waterproofing for an existing structure located at Colletts Close. The client was concerned about water ingress into the building, which posed a significant threat to the structural integrity and overall safety of the property. The primary objective of this project was to provide a comprehensive external waterproofing solution to mitigate water infiltration issues and protect the structure from potential damage.

THE METHOD

Upon receiving the client’s request, our team of experts embarked on a detailed assessment of the property and the specific challenges it presented. To address the client’s concerns effectively, we proposed and subsequently implemented a multi-tiered waterproofing system, combining both Type A and Type C waterproofing methodologies, complemented by an external drainage channel that would connect seamlessly with the client’s existing drainage system.

SERVICES PROVIDED BY CROFT

• Type A Waterproofing System: The first step in the waterproofing process involved the application of a cementitious slurry and fillet type A system. This system is designed to create a robust barrier against water penetration through the existing structure. Our skilled technicians meticulously applied the waterproofing material to all vulnerable areas, ensuring that no potential entry points for water were left unprotected.
• Type C Waterproofing System: Following the successful implementation of the Type A system, we proceeded to install a Delta Geo drain membrane system, classified as a Type C waterproofing solution. This system further fortified the building’s defenses against water ingress. The Delta Geo drain membrane system acted as an additional protective layer, diverting any moisture away from the structure and facilitating its safe discharge.
• Perimeter Land Drain with Rodding Access: To further enhance the drainage capabilities of the system, we installed a perimeter land drain with rodding access. This feature allowed for easy maintenance and inspection of the drainage system over time. It ensured that any potential blockages or issues could be quickly identified and resolved, minimizing the risk of water-related damage in the future.

By combining these waterproofing measures, our team successfully delivered a comprehensive and tailored solution to address the client’s concerns at Colletts Close. The newly installed waterproofing systems, coupled with the external drainage infrastructure, provided a robust defense against water ingress, safeguarding the structural integrity of the building and ensuring the client’s peace of mind for years to come.

In May 2022, we were contacted by a homeowner in Alum Chine Road, Westbourne, who had noticed signs of damp in their home. They asked our team for help in assessing the situation on their ground floor.

We arrived soon after to carry out a survey, and the moisture levels we detected on various lower-level walls confirmed their suspicions: their home was dealing with rising damp due to a compromised damp proof course.

Dealing with damp issues quickly is essential. Not only can they spoil the appearance of a home, but they can also weaken its structure and encourage the growth of harmful rot and mould.

To tackle the client’s damp problem, we came up with a plan to strip the affected plaster down to the masonry, install a new damp proof course, and finish it with a waterproof membrane system. This solution would bring their home back to a safe and dry state, reducing the risk of more damp-related problems down the line.

THE METHOD

As always, we began by protecting our customers’ floors and furnishings with coverings and moving any large objects safely out of range. We also made sure to put on the required personal protective gear.

Next, we stripped away the damp-affected plaster to unveil the masonry beneath it. Our team cleared away the debris and responsibly disposed of the worn-out material before moving on to the next step.

Since we believed that a chemical damp-proofing solution was the best choice for this property, we drilled a series of evenly spaced holes in the wall in preparation for the chemical injection. We carefully filled these holes with the mixture, making sure not to underfill or overfill. We then let the mixture dry and harden into a strong barrier.

For even more protection against damp, we applied a waterproof rendering system and finished with a specialist breathable plaster. The damp proof course, render, and plaster all worked together to provide comprehensive protection against damp returning.

Ultimately, the property owner was happy to have a clean and dry home once more, one they could look forward to enjoying for a long time to come.

FIRST-RATE DAMP PROOFING SPECIALISTS

Thanks to nearly 40 years of experience, the team at Croft Preservation know damp, rot, and mould like no one else. We’ve successfully tackled a wide array of damp issues over the years, from the straightforward to the most complex, giving us the expertise to help you with just about any problem you might encounter.

On top of our quality workmanship, we’re committed to delivering exceptional customer service and some of the most competitive quotes in the South. We also offer a 20-year guarantee on all damp proof courses, giving you peace of mind that your property will stay protected from damp issues for many years to come.

We’re proud of all we’ve achieved, but don’t just take our word for it – read through our testimonials to see what our other clients thought about our services!

If you’d like to get started, don’t hesitate to book a property survey online or by calling us on 01202 737739 today. We’re here to help!

In July 2022, a homeowner in Bond Road, Poole reached out to us to convert their garage into a dry, usable space.

When evaluating the garage, we decided the best course of action would be to install a damp proofing membrane and waterproof floor epoxy.

Damp proofing is the best way to prevent a range of problems caused by moisture, including mould growth, damage to plaster, discolouration, rising damp, and penetrating damp.

Giving the garage this treatment would repel moisture and keep the room a safe and dry place for the homeowners to spend time in.

THE METHOD

To begin with, the garage was cleared of all furniture and objects. The walls were smoothed over to allow for a clean application, and the membrane was measured and cut to size.

Next came the membrane installation process. We applied the membrane sheets to the walls, making sure to cover each inch of wall so moisture had no chance to leak through.

We then constructed and installed a frame to hold the membrane in place. This frame was insulated and boarded with a moisture-resistant board, adding extra security and ensuring the garage would stay dry for many years to come. The walls were then plaster finished and left to harden.

The final step was to apply a waterproof treatment to the floor. We coated the existing floor slabs with a layer of waterproof epoxy, creating a dry floor finish. The floor was then finished off with brand-new skirtings.

Once the wall plaster and floor epoxy had fully dried, the garage was ready for the homeowners to furnish, decorate, and enjoy.

EXPERIENCED DAMP PROOFING EXPERTS

Thinking of damp proofing your property? Croft is here to help!

We are a family-run business with nearly four decades’ experience in damp treatment and prevention. We have the skills and expertise to thoroughly damp proof your home, while our friendly and professional service ensures you get the best possible experience throughout the process.

Ready to get started? Book a property survey online or by calling us at 01202 737739!

Recently, a homeowner in Amesbury, Wiltshire reached out to us with a problem. They were planning to convert their garage into a warm and dry living space, but had noticed signs of damp along the walls. They wanted us to address the issue before starting renovations.

During our initial survey, we immediately spotted salt contamination on the exposed internal brickwork – a telltale sign of a damp problem. High moisture metre readings throughout the garage walls further confirmed our suspicions.

We ruled out rising damp since the garage was a modern construction with an intact damp-proof course. After some investigation, we discovered the true culprit – the single-leaf masonry construction didn’t have a cavity, making the space vulnerable to penetrating damp during rainy weather.

Our solution was to install a cavity drain membrane system and insulation. Combined with other preparatory measures, this approach would create a clean, damp-free environment for the converted living space, guaranteeing its comfort for years to come.

THE METHOD

As always, the first step was for us to equip proper PPE and clear the garage of all the furniture and boxes stored within. This prevented damage and gave us an obstruction-free space to work in.

Once the garage was prepared, we got to work on waterproofing the space. We installed a high-density polyethylene drainage membrane on the walls to prevent any moisture from seeping through, and placed a perimeter drainage channel in the floor to collect and divert any water that might find its way behind the membrane.

With the waterproofing in place, we moved onto insulating the garage. We framed out the walls in timber and filled them with thick insulation to keep the space warm in the winter and cool in the summer. We also installed ceiling joists and an access hatch for the loft. Next, we covered the walls with moisture-resistant plasterboard, getting the garage ready for its finishing touches.

After the drywall went up, we applied a smooth plaster finish to the walls and ceiling. We also coated the concrete slab floor with an epoxy membrane for a durable, easy-to-clean surface.

Once everything was dry, the client was able to come in and add skirting boards, decorate, and lay down flooring. The space was left as a warm, dry, and inviting area ready for heating and furnishing.

SPECIALISTS IN DAMP TREATMENT AND PREVENTION

Worried about damp problems in your own home? With over four decades of experience, the specialists at Croft Preservation have got you covered.

We’re able to identify and eliminate all kinds of damp, mould, and rot problems, from minor cases to major infestations. Afterwards, we’ll install powerful damp-proofing solutions to protect your property from further issues down the line.

And it’s not just damp we specialise in. We offer a range of other property services, making us a one-stop-shop for all your home maintenance needs. From plastering to renovations, we’re here to help you keep your home in top condition.

Don’t let damp wreak havoc on your property. Book a property survey online or call us on 01202 737739, and let us restore your peace of mind today!