Rising damp can be effectively and economically treated with damp-proof injections.
They don’t need any particular setup and are widely utilised to keep moisture from rising through the walls and generating dampness.
Damp injections deliver long-lasting protection by penetrating the masonry deeply. Their effectiveness typically lasts for the lifetime of the building.
What Is A Damp Proof Injection?
A damp-proof injection is a technique to prevent moisture from penetrating the walls of a building. This process involves injecting a specialised cream into the walls of a building to create a barrier against moisture, which can cause damp and mould to form.
The solution is usually made up of a mixture of chemicals, such as bitumen or silicone, which are injected into walls through small holes drilled into masonry.
A damp-proof injection is often necessary for older buildings, where the original damp-proof course may have become damaged over time or in areas with high moisture levels or rainfall.
How Does A Damp Proof Injection Work?
Here are some guidelines for a damp-proof injection process and how the process works:
- Inspection: A thorough inspection of the affected area is conducted to determine the extent of the damp problem and the appropriate solution.
- Preparation: The surface of the affected area is cleaned and prepared for the injection. This may involve removing any loose mortar or debris.
- Drilling: Holes are drilled into the affected wall or foundation regularly.
- Injection: The damp-proof cream is injected into the holes using a special tool, filling the pores and capillaries within the masonry.
- Drying: The damp-proof creams dry to form a water-repellent barrier that prevents moisture from rising through the capillaries in the masonry.
- Sealant: A sealant may be applied to the surface of the treated area to protect it against further moisture intrusion.
The damp-proof injection process is designed to be quick, clean and effective, providing long-term protection against the damaging effects of rising damp.
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Why Do You Need Damp Proof Injection?
Damp can be a major building problem and cause many issues if not addressed. Here are some of the reasons why you might need a damp-proof injection:
- To Prevent Structural damage: Damp can cause structural damage, weaken the walls or become more susceptible to collapse.
- Prevent Mould Growth: The damp can lead to growth that harms health and creates an unpleasant odour.
- To Prevent rot in the wood: Damp can cause wood to rot, weakening the structural integrity of a building and making it more susceptible to collapse.
- To Avoid Health Issues: The dampness of a building can also cause health problems, particularly respiratory issues and allergies.
Damp treatment is necessary to avoid such problems or keep the external walls intact.
Limitation of Damp Proof Injection
Here are some of the limitations of damp-proof injection:
- Incomplete Coverage
- Cost
- Accessibility
- Future changes
What Are the Best Damp Proofing Methods?
A range of damp-proofing methods can be used to prevent damp in buildings. Here are some of the best methods:
Method 1: Damp proof course (DPC)
A remedial damp proof course is a layer of material, typically made of plastic or bitumen, that is installed in the walls of a building to prevent moisture from penetrating the structure. This method to treat rising damp is particularly effective in preventing rising damp from the ground.
Method 2: Damp-proof membrane (DPM)
A damp-proof membrane is a layer of waterproof material, typically made of plastic, that is laid over the ground or concrete floor of a building to prevent moisture from rising into the walls.
Method 3: Cavity wall tie replacement
In some cases, moisture can penetrate a building through defective wall ties. Cavity wall tie replacement involves removing and replacing old ties with new, corrosion-resistant ones to prevent moisture penetration.
Method 4: Tank and membrane
This method involves installing a layer of waterproof membrane over the walls of a building and then covering the membrane with a layer of sand or gravel. This creates a tank effect, which helps to prevent moisture from penetrating the walls.
Method 5: Waterproof rendering
Waterproof rendering involves applying a layer of waterproof render over the walls of a building to create a barrier to moisture penetration. This method is particularly effective in preventing penetrating damp from the outside.
The best damp-proofing method for a particular building will depend on several factors, including the type of damp, the age and condition of the building, and the budget for the work.
Damp Proofing Tips
Here are some tips to help prevent damp in your walls:
- Keep the walls dry: Wipe down walls exposed to moisture, such as those in the kitchen or bathroom, to prevent moisture from penetrating the walls.
- Ventilate the property: Ensure that your property is well-ventilated, particularly in rooms that are prone to damp, such as the kitchen, bathroom, and laundry.
- Repair leaks: If you have a leak in your roof or windows, repair it as soon as possible to prevent moisture from penetrating your walls.
- Check for rising damp: Rising damp occurs when moisture rises from the ground into the walls of a building. If you suspect rising damp, have a professional surveyor inspect your property and perform any necessary treatment.
- Insulate the walls: Proper insulation can help to prevent damp in your walls by reducing the amount of moisture that can penetrate the walls.
- Use a dehumidifier: If you live in a damp area, consider using a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture from the air and prevent damp in your walls.
- Keep the gutters and downpipes clear: Blocked gutters and downpipes can cause water to penetrate your walls, so keep them clear to prevent damp.
- Consider damp proofing: If you are experiencing persistent damp in your walls, consider having a professional carry-out damp proofing. This will help to prevent moisture from penetrating your walls and causing damage.
Best Effective Method: Damp Proof Cream Injection Carried Out Correctly
To carry out a damp-proof cream injection correctly, it is important to follow these steps:
- Prepare the surface: The wall’s surface should be cleaned and made free from any dirt or debris to allow for better penetration of the damp-proof cream.
- Locate the injection points: The injection points should be spaced evenly along the wall while treating rising damp, typically at intervals of around 600mm, and positioned at the wall’s base where rising damp is most likely to occur.
- Drill the injection holes: Make small holes in the wall at the injection points using a drill. These holes should be drilled vertically and deep enough to reach the chemical damp-proof courses.
- Inject damp-proof cream: A special injection pump injects the damp-proof cream into the holes. The chemical damp proofing cream should be injected slowly and evenly to ensure it spreads evenly through the wall and creates a continuous moisture barrier.
- Seal the injection holes: Once the cream has been injected, the holes should be sealed with a suitable filler to prevent the cream from leaking out.
- Inspect the work: The work should be inspected to ensure that the cream has been injected evenly and that the barrier to moisture penetration is effective.
See related: Damp Survey London
After the Damp Proof Injection Cream Has Been Installed
After a damp-proof injection cream has been installed, there are a few things you can do to help ensure that it remains effective:
- Monitor the walls
- Keep the walls well-ventilated
- Avoid exposing the walls to moisture
- Repair any leaks
- Consider using a dehumidifier
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How NOT To Inject A Damp Proof Cream?
There are several things to avoid when injecting a damp-proof cream to ensure moisture penetration remains intact:
- Overloading the injection holes with too much cream can cause the cream to leak out, reducing the effectiveness of the damp proofing and potentially causing damage to the wall.
- Using the wrong type of cream, such as a cream not specifically designed for damp proofing, can result in the cream being ineffective and not providing a barrier to moisture penetration.
- If the cream is not injected evenly along the wall, it may result in patchy coverage, reducing the effectiveness of the damp proofing and allowing moisture to penetrate the wall in some areas.
- Failing to seal the injection holes after injecting the cream according to the damp-proof injection method can result in the cream leaking out, reducing its effectiveness and potentially causing damage to the wall.
- Regularly monitoring the walls to remain dry is important to ensure that the damp-proof cream is effective and to identify any issues as soon as they arise.
Contact Damp Proof Injection Specialist
I hope this gives you a clearer understanding of the damp-proof injection process and the importance of installing a chemical Damp Proof Course injection if your property is experiencing rising damp.
If you require additional information or want to schedule an inspection for damp proofing, kindly contact the nearest expert or specialist. An expert will be available to assist you with your inquiry.
Faq’s
What is a damp proof injection?
Damp proof injection is a process used to prevent moisture from penetrating walls and floors. It involves injecting a chemical solution into the structure to create a barrier against water.
Why might I need a damp proof injection?
If you have noticed dampness or mould growth in your home or building, it may be a sign that water is penetrating the structure. A damp proof injection can help to prevent further damage and protect your property from moisture-related issues.
How does a damp proof injection work?
The injection process involves drilling holes into the affected area and injecting a special chemical solution into the wall or floor. The solution then reacts with the surrounding materials to create a waterproof barrier.
Is a damp proof injection safe?
Yes, damp proof injection is a safe and effective way to prevent moisture penetration. The chemicals used in the process are non-toxic and pose no harm to human health or the environment.
How long does a damp proof injection last?
The effectiveness of a damp proof injection can last for many years, depending on the quality of the materials used and the severity of the moisture problem. It is important to have the injection carried out by a qualified professional to ensure the best possible results.
