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Conversions

Converting Cellar to usable space

Anonymous user 28/02/2024 - 4.07 PM

I've have a Victorian terrace with a cellar. The cellar is quite a big space (2 rooms each ~3.5 x 3.5), but it gets VERY damp, and everything stored in there seems to get mouldy or damp, even if stored on plastic sheeting or shelves. One room is significantly worse than the other. It's got a slab floor, and water seems to raise up through the slab (especially when raining) making the slabs wet. In some areas it looks like there is actually black mould on the slabs. It's got a painted brick wall, which in one corner has a patch where water is let in (it looks like it seeps through the wall). I want to make this a useful space (not necessarily a living space, just a space where things can be stored without fear of mould and damp!). Would anyone be able to give me a list of potential options to reduce/eliminate damp? Thanks, James

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3 Answers

Renov8BuildingContractorsLtd

Rating: 5 out of 5

Dunstable

Hi, there are a few options here, each area/property would need assessment in order to recommend the best way to proceed however. A) BASIC, dehumidifier's and passive ventilation- (if water proofing is okay) If rising damp or penetrative damp are not an issue then creative moisture is most likely the issue, in which case dehumidifier's and/or added/upgraded ventilation should act remedially. B) SECONDARY, surface water discharge (if existing water proofing is failing) It could be that external water discharge is creating an over moist external soil than was original. Check downpipe gullies are clear, water runoff from drives, paving, etc are discharging sufficiently distant. C) TOTAL and COMPLETE- Guaranteed tanking systems, (Generally with perimeter drain and sump) along with adequate ventilation is the only way to secure piece of mind and ensure long term usage free from damp. Hope this is of use

Answered25 August 2023

Dampcure Preservation

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Louth

tanking the walls and floor is the best solution.sump and pump installed into floor extraction fan to wall area .insulation board fitted to walls ,and suitable insulation to floor 5in if possible .finally skim plaster,decorate,move in.

Answered24 August 2023

Prudens Engıneerıng & Consultancy Ltd

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Bromley

"What to Do in Highly Humid and Moldy Spaces? If the source of moisture cannot be identified, the following steps should be taken initially: Where is the location of the dwelling within the building? (Roofs and basements are potential mold-prone areas.) If it is close to the roof, there is a high probability of water leakage from the roof. Roof insulation should be inspected. If it is a basement or ground floor, there is a high probability of capillary rising groundwater entering from below. If the drainage around the building has deteriorated, it should be renewed. Airborne humidity is measured with a hygrometer. Humidity levels between 45% and 60% are considered normal. If the humidity is normal, the source of moisture should be investigated by a professional. It should be observed for a certain period, considering fluctuations and dates of increase or decrease based on weather conditions. Investigate whether there is exterior wall insulation, especially. If the insulation is deteriorated, it should be replaced."

Answered4 October 2023