All properties constructed around Sydney, and the rest of the world for that matter, will have a foundation constructed from brick or stone. Naturally porous, these materials are strong but over time, the mortar that holds bricks together can soften. When the soluble salts contained within these materials come to the surface, moisture from the atmosphere is drawn to the wall, which can effectively result in moisture problems. The best way to deal with this is by paying for sub floor ventilation. A service offered by many damp floor treatment specialists throughout the city, it could protect your investment, enhance comfort and even improve overall health.
Identifying a Rising Damp Problem
Before you start comparing companies in your area, learn how to detect a rising damp problem. If you have been coughing, sneezing, wheezing or feeling short of breath, there is a high chance that mould spores are in the air. When inhaled, a wide range of respiratory conditions can affect the lungs. The easiest way to determine whether or not a problem is present is to look for poor drainage, salt damp, moisture marks on the walls and ceilings, condensation build-up, rotting timbers and termite infestation. The main types of rising damp include:
- Brick and masonry salt damp
- Condensation damp
- Horizontal penetrating dampness
Whatever type of damp problem you are dealing with, contact a specialist immediately.
Fixing a Rising Damp Problems
The method used by a rising damp specialist to prevent rising damp problems will depend entirely on the extent of the damage. Common services will include wall and ceiling mould control, roof ventilation, air filtration and basement damp proofing, with damp proofing and sub floor ventilation being the most common options. The specialist will likely choose one of four main methods for damp removal, which include:
- Chemical injection under pressure
- Plaster or plasterboard replacement
- Under gravity chemical impregnation
- Physical damp course
Prices will vary for each but typically, the job can be completed in 48 hours or less. The less time spent on the job, the cheaper it will be, so keep an eye out for damp problems if you don’t want to overspend.
Contacting a Specialist
A rising damp specialist will check for sub floor obstructions, damaged pipes and guttering, poor drainage and signs of humidity. Make sure the specialist offers a written guarantee before work commences and read reviews to ensure they are a reliable source. Remember that preparation work, plastering and installation will affect the cost, so consider this when gathering quotes.
Free and advice can be provided by
Damp Controllers PTY Limited – a company offering subfloor ventilation in the Sydney area. Call 0431 55 04 06 to learn more about their services.