There are two forms of damp – ‘rising damp’ and ‘penetrating damp’.
Rising Damp
The main indication of rising damp is a tidemark stain on ground floor walls. The plaster on affected areas may swell. Rising damp is caused by the omission or failure of a damp proof course – a barrier built into the walls and ground floor of a dwelling in order to prevent water rising from the ground below.
Penetrating Damp
Penetrating damp is the failure of the external structure to prevent water ingress. The most common causes are loose or missing roof tiles, or cracks in the external plaster. Indications of penetrating damp are water stains on ceilings and internal walls after it has been raining.
If you think your home has a dampness problem, please contact Apex’s Property Services Department and a visit will be arranged promptly.