Penetrating damp occurs when water passes through bricks and stonework, often due to porous materials, damaged brickwork, or building defects. This type of damp should be addressed as soon as any signs appear, as untreated penetrating damp can lead to more severe structural damage.
A common cause of penetrating damp is porous bricks, which allow rainwater to seep into the masonry. During periods of heavy rain, this moisture can spread, leading to visible damp patches on interior walls. The best solution for this issue is the application of a water-repellent treatment like Stormdry Masonry Protection Cream, which helps prevent water from entering the brickwork.
Other causes of penetrating damp include spalled bricks, faulty pointing, and structural defects. Damaged brickwork and mortar joints reduce the masonry’s ability to resist water penetration, potentially leading to further structural issues. Repairing and waterproofing damaged mortar joints, for instance with Stormdry Repointing Additives, can prevent further water damage and restore stability.
Building defects such as leaking gutters, damaged roofs, or faulty seals around windows and doors are also major contributors to penetrating damp. These issues can create a constant source of moisture, affecting both the building’s structure and interior decor. It’s crucial to repair these defects as soon as they are identified to avoid worsening damage.
Typical signs of penetrating damp include localised damp patches and watermarks on walls. These patches often grow in size during wet weather, indicating that moisture is penetrating the brickwork and spreading through the masonry.
Before treating penetrating damp, it’s important to identify the root cause, whether it’s due to porous bricks, damaged masonry, or building defects. Depending on the issue, different treatments are required. For porous bricks, Stormdry Masonry Protection Cream is an effective solution. This colourless, breathable treatment is applied in a single coat and provides long-lasting protection for up to 25 years, allowing your walls to breathe while preventing moisture from entering.
For cracks in masonry or faulty mortar joints, repairs are essential. Mortar should be re-pointed using a suitable sand/cement mix with Stormdry Repointing Additives to ensure waterproofing and durability. In cases of wind-driven rain, even mortar beds in seemingly good condition may require re-pointing to prevent rain from seeping into the brickwork.
If you’re experiencing issues with penetrating damp, Smiths Damp Proofing Ltd can help identify the cause and provide tailored solutions to protect your property.
Get in touch with us today to arrange an assessment and discuss the best course of action to keep your home safe from the damaging effects of penetrating damp.
