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Damp Proofing

What is the probable cause and solution of damp on this wall?

Anonymous user 03/03/2024 - 3.47 PM

I have this wall on the lowest point of my house, in the cupboard it is particularly bad, there is efflorescence of fine white crystals and the material (what appears to be steel and cement) flakes away quite easily. I've noticed bubbling of plaster and paint outside of the cupboard on the same wall, on the opposite end of the wall where the cupboard is situated. There doesn't seem to be a particular pattern to where it is appearing as the rest of the wall seems fine. This wall is adjacent to my neighbours driveway, and these houses seem to have an issue where the driveway will temporarily flood (for an hour or so) if there's a really heavy downpour. The house has cavity insulation, but since it was not commissioned by me I have no idea who done the work. There is a vent in the cupboard which appears to have been sealed at some point too. I'm wondering can I potentially solve the issue by reintroducing the vent holes with a drill? Or is this indicative of a bigger issue (e.g. The cavity insulation is not the correct material/not correctly installed and is causing cold spots, or is there possible ingress of water through the brick?). The areas that have the damp do seem much colder than the other parts, and I've noticed that the cupboard damp issue is wet to the touch from time to time. Pics in below url. https://1drv.ms/f/s!AhxHTyY3VTWclMFyz_atudcZ__fDFQ

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4 Answers

Promaster Gecko Ltd

Rating: 5 out of 5
St Lukes, London
The presence of efflorescence, flaking material, bubbling plaster, and paint on your house's lowest wall, particularly in the cupboard, is a sign of moisture-related problems. Given the proximity to your neighbor's driveway, which occasionally floods during heavy downpours, water ingress through the brick or improper cavity insulation could be contributing to the issue. The sealed vent in the cupboard may have aggravated the problem by trapping moisture. Reintroducing vent holes with a drill might help improve ventilation, but it's essential to address the root causes. Consider inspecting the insulation, checking for any breaches or incorrect materials, and ensuring proper drainage or waterproofing measures to prevent water infiltration. Consulting a professional for a thorough assessment is advisable to determine the extent of the problem and the most effective solutions.
Answered2 October 2023
5

Taylor-made construction

Rating: 3 out of 5
Mansfield
Yes u will need to re instate the vent and makesure it’s not blocked it will help ventilate and help dry the damp area
Answered2 October 2023
0

A.Goodwin Brickwork

No reviews yet

Oldham
Try to improve air circulation around the damp areas to allow the damp patches to dry out.
Answered2 October 2023
0

Anonymous user

quickest and easiest is to re-instate the vent, this is easily dealt with as a diyer/homeowner therefore keeping your money in your pocket.
Answered11 October 2023
0