Rising damp is a persistent problem that can cause significant damage. The most important barrier against this moisture is what we call the damp-proof course. This is a waterproof DPC membrane that is positioned against the foundations .
What if that membrane gets damaged? How do you properly apply that DPC membrane? And is it also a tool to combat an existing moisture problem? Below, we tell you all about it.
The Dangers of Rising Damp
Before we talk about the DPC membrane, let’s first list the consequences of rising damp. Because what starts as a damp spot at the bottom of the wall can turn into a serious structural problem.
1. Crumbling Walls
If walls remain damp for a long time, the brickwork will crumble. You naturally want to avoid wet, crumbly bricks in your home at all costs. Moreover, the groundwater brings salts with it that dry out and crystallize on your interior walls. The result: peeling paint, broken plaster and major renovation work.
2. Mold Growth
Moist surfaces are the ideal breeding ground for mold. These molds not only look ugly, they can cause allergies, asthma and respiratory problems. In other words, your health also suffers from this moisture. And, moreover, rising damp is accompanied by a typical, musty odor.
3. Lower Energy Efficiency
Wet walls insulate less well. As a result, heat escapes faster and your energy consumption increases, resulting in higher heating costs.
In short: tackling rising damp is not a luxury; it’s a necessity.
DPC Membrane: An Effective Barrier Against Rising Damp
One of the most well-known ways to prevent rising damp is by installing a DPC membrane. DPC stands for Damp Proof Course, a waterproof barrier that prevents moisture from penetrating the structure.
The membrane typically consists of polyethylene, a plastic known for its water-repellent properties (and long lifespan). The purpose of DPC membrane is simple: to prevent ground moisture from rising into the walls. Furthermore, the membrane can withstand both very high and low temperatures without losing its effectiveness, making it suitable for virtually all climates and seasons.
How is DPC Membrane Installed?
DPC membrane installation always takes place during the structural phase or during a very extensive renovation where the foundation or walls are being opened up anyway. This way, the membrane is correctly integrated into the structure.
The installation usually proceeds as follows:
- A layer of fresh mortar is applied to the masonry surface.
- The DPC membrane is laid into the mortar, usually with the help of a special adhesive tape or butyl tape.
- A second layer of mortar is applied on top of the membrane, ensuring it is firmly secured and fully encapsulated.
- Afterward, masonry work can continue, with the membrane acting as a moisture-resistant layer.
The result: a permanent barrier that prevents your house from ever experiencing rising damp.
DPC Membrane: Primarily a Preventive Measure
While DPC membrane offers excellent protection against rising damp, it’s important to understand exactly when this membrane is useful. This is mainly the case when you’re building a new home or carrying out a very thorough renovation that also involves breaking up the floor. If that’s not the case, then DPC membrane won’t be very practical. It needs to be placed against the foundation, which is not easily accessible.
But what if you already have rising damp? Then a different type of moisture control is needed . In many cases, our experts will perform a wall injection. We inject a moisture-resistant gel into the damp wall. This dries out, the gel hardens, and creates a new, waterproof barrier inside the wall.
Such a wall injection is therefore the standard approach for existing homes, while DPC membrane primarily plays a role in prevention.
Solusio Combats Rising Damp
DPC membrane is an excellent way to keep moisture out of your home. It forms a permanent waterproof barrier that prevents ground moisture from affecting the walls, but mainly as a preventive measure.
If you’re already experiencing moisture problems, then a wall injection or another treatment method is usually the right approach. Would you like advice on what works best in your situation? Contact the experts at Solusio today. We’ll be happy to help you further.