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Rising Damp is the name given to moisture that rises up a wall due to capillary action through the materials used and the atmospheric pressure
being asserted on it. By natural evaporation from the surface of walls, Rising Damp seldom occurs above a height of 1.5 metres unless forced higher by being
sandwiched between two impervious layers of render, gloss paint or wall paper.
Temporary measures, like cleaning the surface, replastering or just repainting can actually make the situation even worse.
The Rising Damp also carries with it hydroscopic salts (nitrates and sulphates) and as dampness evaporates from the wall surface the salts are deposited in the
plasterwork, which build up into a concentration, that can absorb moisture from the air making the situation critical.
Why does Rising Damp occur?
Rising Damp may be caused by a lack of damp proof course in the construction, or by soil debris bridging the existing damp proof course.
Other effects such as garden beds draining under the house or concrete paths directly against the wall, can often enhance the problem.
Check the diagram and you will see at least one of the causes of your Rising Damp problem.
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