How do you fix a damp proof course?

Published by Charlie Davidson on

How do you fix a damp proof course?

Damp proof course injection is one of the most DIY-friendly form of fixing a DPC. This involves a chemical in liquid or cream form. This is injected into the fabric of your home at the level of the old DPC. It creates a water-repelling layer that will stop damp from rising.

Can you slab up to damp course?

As long as there is a reasonable distance between the top of the patio and the damp course ie one course of brick you will be fine, even more so if you leave a ‘gravel margin’ as you mentioned. You should be okay…. the main thing is lay your patio sloping away from your house!

How far below the damp course should a patio be laid?

1. Laying patio foundations. You need to allow 150mm for foundation mix and paving, and if you are laying directly next to a house then the finished patio should be at least 150mm below the damp proof course. This means you will need to dig out the area to a minimum depth of 300mm below the damp proof course.

What does bridged damp proof course mean?

‘Bridging’ or ‘bridged’ is a surveying term which described a DPC which has been bypassed by damp. In effect damp can then rise up a wall, even though a DPC is present. Bridging is a physical defect, which is usually easy to see.

Does patio need to be 150mm below DPC?

The Building Regulations require at least 150mm between the dpc and the ground or any paving. This is what is known as ‘Best Practice’.

Can you concrete above DPC?

No you can not put the dpm above the damp course as you will be bridging the damp course. The damp will rise through the concrete, reach the dpm then move to the bricks then up. You need to protect the bricks above the damp course and below the dpm to stop the damp rising.

How do you fix rising damp in an old house?

The only way to treat rising damp is to create a new damp-proofing course to prevent moisture movement through the structure. Historically, walls were cut into and masonry removed to install a new physical damp-proofing course along the masonry line.

What does it mean to have a bridged damp course?

‘Bridging’ or ‘bridged’ is a surveying term which described a DPC which has been bypassed by damp. In effect damp can then rise up a wall, even though a DPC is present. Bridging is a physical defect, which is usually easy to see. Paths raised to a level very near a DPC (within 150mmm), can cause low level bridging externally.

How long does a damp proof course last?

A home with rising damp will have a DPC that has failed. Or it may never have had a DPC installed in the first place. A damp proof course, even a properly-installed one, may only last for about 20-25 years. An incorrectly installed DPC likely won’t last this long.

What to put on patio above damp proof course?

Since water will get into it you need to make sure it can drain away properly, not fill up. You could consider making a feature of it by partially filling it with crushed glass over an LED ropelight. Click to expand…

How are damp proofing rods used in homes?

Damp proofing rods are very easy to install and will keep your home protected for years. When using a chemical DPC isn’t an option, this method is often used. An Electro Osmotic damp proof course uses wiring to create a small electric charge in the walls of your home. This electric charge reverses the capillary action in bricks and mortar.

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