Damp Proofing Sheffield
Damp Proofing in Sheffield
Signs of damp are common across many homes in South Yorkshire. Damp Proofing in Sheffield is one of the most common projects we undertake in the area, with many homes still using their original damp proof course (DPC).
Damp problems in homes or workplaces across Sheffield can have serious consequences for structural integrity, but also the health of the people who work and live in these buildings daily.
It is vital signs of damp are thoroughly investigated by a professional with experience. The application of a new course of damp proof material is only truly effective once the full extent of the problem has been found.
Specialists in Damp Proofing
The team at Toucan Property Maintenance are specialists in Damp Proofing Sheffield homes and commercial buildings, with over 20 years experience working the the local area. To find the root cause of your damp proofing issues we will provide a full survey of the property to ensure you know the full extent of work required before we start.
Common Types of Damp in Sheffield
Excess condensation causing black mould on windows
Excess Condensation
Condensation control is a probem which effects many homes across South Yorkshire, especially common in winter months. The results of excess condensation become more visible in property which suffer from poor insulation. This leaves colder internal surfaces which when met by warm evaporated air, cause moisture.
If left untreated for prolonged periods, excess condensation can cause mould or damage to walls, furnitre, window frames and other parts of a home leading to expensive replacement and restoration work.
Take a look at our Top Toucan Tips to avoid condensation.
Rising Damp
Rising Damp is a common problem in older properties across South Yorkshire, including Sheffield. This is very common in older properties across the region where the damp proof course has failed below, or just above ground level. Many of the properties we have surveyed in the Sheffield area still have the original damp protection. This has worn away over time leading to a breach.
What is Rising Damp?
Rising damp forms when a damp course fails, allowing ground water to breach the wall. Brick and mortar are permeable materials which absorb moisture from the ground once the DPC is breached.
The moisture comes from the ground surrounding the property, penetrating the foundations and below ground level brickwork. From this entry point the moisture rises through the structure causing visible damp in the form of salts. These salts were soluble in the moisture and dry out above ground level, often leaving white marks on exposed brickwork.
Penetrating Damp
Pentrating damp is similar in many ways to rising damp. Instead of rising up through the wall from ground level, moisture penetrates the materials at an elevated level ususlly in a gap in the brickwork or missing pointing. This is typically seen more in older properties across South Yorkshire where walls have degraded over time leaving them exposed to moisture entry.
The most common causes of penetrating damp in Sheffield properties are eroded brickwork and cement. These allow rain and other elements to enter at numerous points on an external It is also common to see penetrating damp form around windows and external doors. If these have not been fitted correctly, or have moved over time, gaps can appear in sealants which allows moisture to enter the internal wall cavity. This is often the case on walls which are exposed to wind driven rain on a regular basis.
Following a damp survey of your property, the Toucan team can discover the root cause of your damp problems and start the best treatment to a dry future.