by David Sutcliffe

Created on: February 10, 2010   Last Updated: February 11, 2010

DIY Damp Proofing - The Cost Effective Solution For Treating Damp Mold?

The Process Of DIY Damp Proofing

I have severe damp mould on my walls - can I do a diy damp proofing job myself? The million dollar question! Many DIY damp proofing enthusiasts are now "having a go" at  damp proofing walls and treating damp mould themselves with mixed results. With a wealth of information and products easily accessible and a trying economic climate, the DIY damp proof approach seems simple in principle however the mis-diagnosis of the cause of damp in structures and the wrong product for the site conditions can turn a relatively straight forward damp proof job into a recurring problem.

Damp mould is often a sign of condensation damp in the property, meaning that there is excessive moisture in the air. This can be remedied by increasing the ventilation in the property by opening windows, using extractor fans and ensuring the dishwasher and washing machine are correctly plumbed in.

What Is A Damp Proof Course?

Common building practice is to incorporate physical damp proof courses into the structure. This is easily achievable in new build construction but in existing properties the ability to assess the effectiveness of a DPC should be carried out by damp specialists. Rising and penetrating dampness and the treatment is a skilled process and legitimate contractors can be sourced who can offer clients insured guarantees for curing dampness in structures. These guarantees are important in the future and are a requirement to have should the client wish to sell on their property in the future.

Now if you are going to take the DIY damp proofing approach and do not require a insured guarantee, you first must establish whether you are dealing with a pure damp proofing job i.e. your property is all above ground. A damp cellar or basement is not a damp proofing job! Many DIY damp proofing jobs go wrong when an individual looks to treat damp walls in a basement with simple damp proof injection cream, or a cavity drain membrane without a provision for drainage. The retaining jobs needs an expert approach with waterproofing diagnosis, design and installation fully guaranteed. There are companies now which take on fully design liability for below ground waterproofing. If you can be sure that you property has no retaining aspects then the first step of DIY damp proofing would be to establish whether your property has an effective damp proof course. The damp proof course depending upon

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