A major renovation revolves around more insulation, a new facade, demolished walls, and new kitchens. But what many people fail to do is consider moisture problems. Not just the ones that are already there, but also those you can prevent in the future with small interventions during all those renovation works.
That is why it is wise to involve a moisture expert even before the renovation works begin. But how do you actually prevent moisture problems during a major renovation?
Why involve a moisture expert as early as the preparation phase?
Architects and contractors ensure that the renovation is technically executed correctly, but a moisture specialist looks at the home from a different perspective. He investigates where moisture can penetrate and which preventive measures are useful.
This prevents unpleasant surprises afterwards. It is simply much easier and cheaper to tackle a moisture problem while the renovation is still ongoing than after all the walls have been refinished. Moreover, a moisture specialist can work perfectly alongside other professionals on the construction site, ensuring all interventions align seamlessly.
Preventing moisture during renovation works: these measures make the difference
Not every home has a moisture problem today. However, that does not mean you don’t need to take action during a renovation. Many measures help to prevent future problems.
Check if the damp-proof course is still present
The damp-proof course is an invisible moisture-resistant layer between the foundation and the walls. It prevents ground moisture from rising into the masonry. In older homes, a damp-proof course is sometimes completely missing or has become less effective after decades. Rising damp is then just a matter of time.
Is the ground floor being renovated anyway? Then that is the ideal time to check the damp-proof course and, if necessary, repair it or provide a new damp-proof membrane.
Think not only of insulation, but also of ventilation
Many renovations rightly focus on energy efficiency. New windows, extra roof insulation, and facade insulation significantly lower energy bills.
Yet, that better insulation also has a downside. The home becomes much more airtight, making it harder for moisture to escape. A solid ventilation system is therefore at least as important as good insulation. This prevents condensation on windows, mold growth, and an unhealthy indoor climate.
Also protect the facade
When you renovate the exterior facade, it is wise to immediately think about extra protection against rainwater.
A hydrofuge treatment makes the facade water-repellent without sealing the wall. Rain has less chance of penetrating the facade, while moisture from the inside can still evaporate. This not only extends the lifespan of the facade but also reduces the chance of penetrating damp.
Tackling moisture problems during major renovations
A renovation is not only the perfect time to prevent moisture but also to definitively solve existing problems. Depending on the type of moisture, various solutions exist.
Wall injections against rising damp
Is the existing damp-proof course defective? Then wall injections are often the most efficient solution. Our experts then inject a moisture-resistant gel into the wall. This hardens and forms a new damp-proof course in itself. Ground moisture then hits that hardened gel and cannot rise further. This keeps your walls dry.
Facade renovation or hydrofuge for penetrating damp
Is rainwater entering through the outer wall? Then there is usually a case of penetrating damp. When the facade is still in good condition, a hydrofuge treatment is often sufficient to make the facade water-repellent again. But: first, the worn joints and cracked bricks that let that moisture in must be addressed.
Basement tanking or drainage for basement moisture
Moisture in the basement is another common problem that you should ideally tackle during a renovation. Especially if you want to turn the basement into a storage room, laundry room, office, or hobby room, a dry base is indispensable.
Depending on the cause, there are different solutions. With basement tanking, we apply a completely waterproof cement layer to the walls and floor of the basement. This way, ground and rainwater no longer have a chance to penetrate. If the water pressure around the home is very high, basement drainage might be the better choice. In this case, the penetrating water is collected and drained in a controlled manner, so the basement remains permanently dry.
Don’t ignore small moisture problems
Hidden defects often come to light during a renovation. You might notice damp spots behind old wallpaper, crumbling plaster, or a musty smell when a floor is removed. Do not ignore these signals. A small moisture problem is often relatively easy to solve, but it can grow into a much larger repair after the renovation.
Solusio thinks along with your renovation
Are you planning a major renovation soon? Then have your home checked for moisture problems. The specialists at Solusio look at which preventive measures are advisable and immediately solve existing moisture problems sustainably.
From wall injections against rising damp to facade treatments against penetrating damp: we keep your home dry during major renovations. Contact us today for more information.