Damp is a problem in many homes in the UK – especially older homes. It is common in many homes and this can largely be due to weather conditions in the UK. However, damp can also occur due to other factors in or around the home. This will tell you everything you need to know about rising damp and treatments for rising damp.
What is Rising Damp?
Rising damp usually occurs when moisture from the ground seeps in through the walls of the building. The most common way that this happens is when there is lying water on the ground, either under or in the property, for example, in the basement. Rising damp commonly occurs on the ground floor of a property but can also be caused by;
- Debris in the wall cavity or subfloor void
- Solid floors
- Inappropriate insulation material
How to Tell If You Have Rising Damp
There are some obvious signs of damp in the home or around include;
- Marks and damp staining (inside or outside)
- Wallpaper peeling off
- Decaying skirting boards
- Salts in the plaster board
- Black/toxic mould
Why Are Treatments for Damp So Important?
Treatments for damp are extremely important because damp can cause all manner of health issues for the occupants in the home. Damp can produce toxic mould spores and when left untreated, will only get worse. Damp can cause a number of nasty symptoms in people, including;
- Respiratory issues (especially in those with pre-existing asthma)
- Eczema
- Blocked sinuses
- Sore throat/coughing
- Fever/vomiting
- Aches and pains
- Fainting
Treatments for Rising Damp
There are many treatments for rising damp out there, the best thing you can do if you have rising damp, or any kind of damp, is to call an expert. When carried out by a non-professional as part of a DIY job, treatments for rising damp may not work. Treating damp can be extremely complex, especially because you don’t know just how bad the issue is until you strip the wall back. You may underestimate the scale of the job and damp should not be left exposed if you are going to be in the room. You need the right equipment to be able to allow your home to successfully undergo treatments for rising damp or you could end up causing more damage or making yourself ill – neither of which is advised.
Cost of Treatments for Rising Damp
The cost of treatments for rising damp cannot fully be determined by until it has been assessed by a damp expert who will be able to detect the full extent of the issue. It is said that you should allow around £7,5000 but it could be more or it could be less. A expert in treatments for rising damp will be able to detect how much moisture is in the walls or floors of your property. As well as if the issue spreads any further than any obvious signs of damp.