Dampness in the house is a major problem in Kenya. You contractor needs to have a repair and damp control method from the onset. Damp proofing is a sort of moisture control used in construction that is applied to building walls and floors to prevent moisture from entering the interior spaces. Damp difficulties are among the most common issues that homeowners face.
Every structure will glitter after the final polishing, and then, like a set, the walls will begin to peel apart. This is the most agonizing time for the landlord, and it may also be quite upsetting for the tenant. Aside from making the walls dirty and unappealing, wetness causes discomfort and may even cause a few health problems for the residents.
But what exactly is dampness? Dampness is the presence of undesired moisture in a building\’s structure as a result of either outside infiltration or condensation from within the structure/building.
Types of Damps – Best Repair and Damp Control in Kenya
Rising Water
What is Rising Damp and What Causes It? Rising damp (dampness) occurs when salt-laden ground moisture creeps up a masonry wall. It happens when the construction system fails to keep subsurface water from coming to the surface.
Rising damp is caused by the capillary suction of moisture from the ground into porous masonry construction materials such as stone, brick, soil, and mortar.
It could happen if there is no damp proof course (DPC) or if the DPC is damaged or bridged.
Because increasing damp is frequently misdiagnosed, you should have your damp problem investigated by a skilled and experienced surveyor who can spot and comprehend the situation.
How can I tell if I have a Rising Damp issue?
Here are a few frequent warning indicators to check for:
- Damp musty odor
- Paint peeling that is persistent
- Plaster crumbling or smeared with salt
- Discoloration, staining, and chalking
- The development of black moulds
- Molds and algae on the exterior walls
- The wall and floor surfaces will be cold or moist.
- It is always advised that these evident flaws be evaluated by a specialist.
Why should you be concerned about rising damp?
Damp not only causes structural damage to your building\’s infrastructure, but it can also have health consequences. It\’s a real annoyance!
Damp or mould in your home can wreak havoc on your respiratory system and aggravate any asthma symptoms you may have. This is especially dangerous for small children and the elderly.
No need to be concerned; we have a solution for you…
We specialize in the repair and control of rising damp in both residential and commercial structures. Contact us immediately to get started on resolving your rising damp issue.
House Damp Repair Services in Kenya
Falling Rain
It\’s caused by water seeping in from the top of porous masonry walls.
This could be due to inadequate waterproofing of the top of a boundary wall (coping), failed flashing, blocked or leaking gutters, joints that have lost their mortar, and filth and moss build-up on upper surfaces of stone or brickwork.
Damp Penetration
It is caused by the horizontal infiltration of water through cracks (often microscopic) in the substrate of a building.
Leaking water pipes and untreated plaster or brick can cause penetrating or horizontal damp. Drips from air conditioners and hot water system overflows can also be problematic. Penetrating damp causes localized regions of wetness and deterioration.
Efflorescence
Efflorescence occurs when a significant amount of soluble salts are present in the masonry.
Damp transports these salts up the masonry, where they evaporate. The salts are left behind as a white fluffy layer as the water evaporates. When dry, this residue can usually be brushed off.
Unless it occurs in excess, it is more of an aesthetic issue than a structural one.
Methods of preventing moisture
To reduce dampness and moisture, use waterproof services in Kenya during foundation building, especially in swampy locations.
The use of raft foundations, particularly in wet environments, as well as suitable concrete mix ratios and fine particles, aids in making concrete impenetrable.
A sufficient thickness of concrete. Bitumen application on concrete roof surfaces. When finishing, breathable paint should be used.
If the moisture is already there, seal any leaks in the internal plumbing system. Specifically, replace damaged pipes and ensure that all junctions are securely sealed.
Rainwater from the roof should be piped away from the building, either to the main drain or to a soakway. Check for and fix downpipe obstructions.
To avoid cracks in walls and pipe damage, keep trees with strong roots away from the building.
Lower the ground floor outside the building if possible.
It is critical to open up a building to allow air to flow in and out.
Building vents are used.
Internal paint that is breathable or porous to allow moisture to disperse from splatters on the wall.