What Are The Signs Of Rising Damp?
Suspecting Rising Damp?
Do you suspect that your property has been invaded by pesky rising damp? If you do, then we’ll outline several ways to identify the problem. This guide will examine all the signs that should tell you there is a problem and find what may be causing it.
If you notice any of the signs we discuss below on your property, you should consult with a rising damp specialist right away. It is essential to state that it can sometimes be hard for regular people to distinguish between other damp-related issues and rising damp. That’s another reason why you will want to consider consulting with an expert.
Damp Stains And Tidemarks Across Your Walls
Tidemarks happen to be the most recognisable signs of there being a rising damp problem with the property. The lines are usually horizontal, discoloured, or brown marks around a meter in height if seen on one of the interior walls.
The marks are caused by the migration of salts, where the evaporated water or dampness has risen from the flooring. However, if you don’t see tidemarks, then check the walls for signs of dampness.
Like having tidemarks, the dampness will also be around a meter above ground and brown. If the damp patches are well above a meter from the ground, then you may be dealing with penetrating damp, which is a different problem. However, penetrating damp can be caused by the existence of rising damp which is why a careful and professional diagnosis is needed.
Visible Wet Patches
If your walls have visible wet patches or damp patches, the problem is likely being caused by rising damp. If the problem is caused by rising damp, the patches will be on the lower part of the wall, near the ground. So, if it is a building, it might be on the ground floor.
Rising damp is caused by capillary action in which moisture is moving upwards through the walls via the stone and brickwork. The only barrier protecting your property from rising damp is a damp proof course that will mean your property is vulnerable to the problem if damaged or if it does not exist.
If there are signs of rising damp above the ground floor, then it is caused by some other dampness-related issue like penetrating damp or maybe condensation.
You Notice Wallpaper Peeling Off
It is another sign of rising damp. If there is dampness in the walls, that will cause the wallpaper to peel off because it can’t adhere to a wet surface. Usually, this problem is most evident near the skirting board or around the wall. In addition, peeling paper is also associated with condensation and penetrating dampness.
If you notice wallpaper peeling off, then you should consult with a professional right away. A professional diagnosis will make it possible to determine what is causing the problem in the first place.
Bubbling Wall Plaster
It is also characterized as flaking and is another symptom of rising damp being the cause of it. Usually, the plaster will appear crumbling, or you might see some plaster on the floor. The problem is caused by the amount of moisture in the walls, which weakens the plaster leading it to fall off.
The problem is stressful for many homeowners in South Africa since it ruins the aesthetics of the property, and fixing it can prove to be expensive too.
a Musty Smell
Another common way of identifying dampness on the property is the presence of a musty smell, also called a damp smell. It is a moist smell that’s evidence of an issue caused by dampness. Since all forms of dampness can have this smell, it is hard to diagnose from smell alone.
Skirting Boards and Beadings Start Rotting
If rising damp is left untreated for an extended period, it will lead to a myriad of issues occurring later. For instance, you will notice that the skirting boards are rotting.
The problem is caused by moisture that has taken up residence in the timber. Usually, the rot will start when moisture reaches 20% and begins to germinate. As a property owner, you need to be aware of this fact so that it can be stopped before all the wood rots.
The Appearance of Black Mould
It is a common sign of dampness on the property. It is associated with the presence of condensation and dampness. However, if you see mould in a specific part of the wall, then it can be a sign of rising damp or penetrating damp. If anything, it merits further professional investigation.
Conclusion
Rising damp isn’t a problem that should be taken lightly. Always make sure to consult with a professional if you see any of the signs we’ve listed above.
