THE PROBLEM
 Rising damp is a result of capillary action, where moisture from the ground can rise up within the walls and mortar beds up to approximately one metre above ground level, and the symptoms of which can be a problem in both dry and wet conditions. One or more of several symptoms identifies rising damp, such as stained decoration, lifting wallpaper, softening plaster, and mould or fungi in timber and wall surfaces. Concrete floors can also suffer from rising damp.
THE SOLUTION
Elan Dampcoursing's qualified estimators will provide a full detailed report and plan, identifying the extent of the rising damp and any other causes of dampness such as leaking pipes or gutters, defective flashings or poor ventilation. A detailed replastering specification will be given as rising damp carries hygroscopic salts up in to the walls to ruin decorations and break down the plaster. Wherever possible, the chemical damp proof course will be injected below the timber floor level or, with a solid floor, the first course above floor level. If this is not possible, clients are informed and given an assessment of the state of the timberwork. It is often possible to avoid full replacement of the floor joists by the removal of the affected ends and then re-supporting them using steel shoes to the ends which abut into walls.
Before treatment, skirtings are removed and plaster is cut away above the last visible sign of dampness in order to remove hygroscopic salts. The brickwork is then drilled and injected. It is possible to treat very thick walls by a staged process of drilling and injection. Replastering is carried out to the detailed specification in the report, which will have also included explanatory notes on the drying out period.
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