Case Study:
Comprehensive Damp Proofing in Broadwater, Worthing

This case study examines a complex damp proofing project undertaken at a property in Broadwater, Worthing. The building was suffering from multiple moisture-related issues, specifically rising damp affecting internal walls and penetrating damp on external walls. The project required a comprehensive approach to address both problems while improving the thermal efficiency of the property.

Worthing damp proofing works 1_edited_edited.jpg

The Challenge

Rising Damp on Internal Walls

The internal walls exhibited classic signs of rising damp, including:

Damaged and deteriorating plaster
Tide marks on lower sections of walls
Salt deposits visible on wall surfaces
Musty odour in affected rooms

Penetrating Damp on External Walls

The external walls were suffering from penetrating damp, characterised by:

Visible cracks in the exterior masonry
Water ingress during rainfall
Damp patches on internal wall surfaces
Deterioration of internal finishes
Cold, damp wall surfaces contributing to condensation

Both issues required separate but complementary treatment approaches to ensure comprehensive resolution of the property's damp problems.

The Solution

Rising Damp Treatment

To address the rising damp affecting the internal walls, Gavin implemented a systematic treatment process:

Conducted a thorough survey to determine the extent of the rising damp
Removed affected plaster to expose the underlying masonry
Installed a chemical damp proof course (DPC) by drilling holes at regular intervals along the mortar bed
Injected specialised damp proofing cream into the holes, creating a continuous moisture barrier
Allowed sufficient time for the chemical DPC to distribute and become effective

External Wall Repairs

The penetrating damp issues required structural repairs to the exterior walls:

Identified and documented all cracks and damaged areas in the external masonry
Thoroughly cleaned out the cracks to remove loose material
Applied appropriate repair materials to seal the cracks
Ensured proper curing of repairs
Applied waterproof treatments where necessary to prevent future water ingress

Innovative Interior Wall Solution

Following the damp treatment, Gavin implemented a comprehensive wall renovation system:

Completely removing all existing plaster from the inside of the affected exterior walls, exposing the bare masonry
Attached specialised insulation plasterboards using waterproof adhesive
Critically, maintained a small gap between the wall and boards to create an air circulation channel
This airflow gap serves as a crucial element in preventing future damp issues by allowing the wall to "breathe"
Applied a professional plaster finish to the insulation boards, bringing the walls to a fine, smooth surface ready for decoration

Technical Aspects

The Importance of the Airflow Gap

The deliberate inclusion of an airflow gap between the masonry and the new insulation boards serves multiple crucial functions:

Prevents direct contact between potentially damp masonry and the new wall surface
Allows any residual moisture in the walls to evaporate naturally
Creates a thermal break that improves energy efficiency
Reduces the risk of condensation by maintaining warmer internal surface temperatures
Provides long-term protection against future damp issues

Insulation Benefits

The insulation plasterboards deliver significant advantages beyond damp prevention:

Improved thermal efficiency, reducing heating costs
Warmer wall surfaces that minimise condensation risk
Enhanced soundproofing properties
Faster heating response in the treated rooms
Contribution to overall energy efficiency of the property

Conclusion

Results and Benefits

The comprehensive approach to this Broadwater property's damp issues delivered exceptional results.

The rising damp in internal walls was eliminated, while the external wall repairs successfully prevented further penetrating damp. The innovative insulation system with its crucial airflow gap not only resolved the immediate moisture problems but also significantly improved the property's thermal performance, creating warmer wall surfaces that prevent condensation and potential mould growth.

The homeowners can now enjoy a healthier indoor environment, aesthetically pleasing wall finishes, and potential energy cost savings due to the enhanced insulation properties. Most importantly, this solution provides long-term protection against future moisture-related issues, ensuring the property remains dry and comfortable for years to come.

This Broadwater, Worthing project demonstrates the importance of addressing damp issues with an integrated approach that tackles both the symptoms and underlying causes. By combining chemical damp proofing treatments with structural repairs and innovative insulation solutions, we were able to transform a problematic, damp-affected property into a dry, comfortable, and energy-efficient home.

Worthing damp proofing works 3_edited.jpg

How We Can Help

At G Jones Plastering & Damp Proofing, Gavin's extensive experience and technical knowledge allow him to identify the specific causes of damp problems and implement effective, long-lasting solutions. As a PCA Qualified Technician with over 25 years in the industry, Gavin ensures that each project receives the most appropriate treatment tailored to the property's specific needs.

If you're experiencing damp issues in your property, contact us today for a professional assessment and comprehensive solution that addresses both immediate concerns and provides long-term protection.