Damp proofing is an essential part of any construction, whether commercial or domestic.It might not do anything to enhance the structure aesthetically, but it can add years to the strength and durability of the building. Properties which are newly built have physical isolation membrane which is placed about 150mm above the ground level. This prevents the moisture's capillary movement to rise above the barrier, while efficiently proofing the property against dampness above these barriers. It means that if a building does not have earth binding over DPC or damp proof course, as well as any leaking pipes or gutters, then you will not face any problems related to damp proofing.
Physical membranes have been used as separation layer in almost every block work and brick construction since more than fifty years. As properties in older times were built using rubble or stone, thus the builders faced several challenges when damp proofing them. There were also some limitations when it came to what could possibly be done when inserting DPC.
While damp proofing a rubble or stone wall, usually chemical DPC is inserted for isolating internal property or structure from the damaging impacts of increasing dampness. Chemical DPC is used because inserting physical membrane might not be possible in this case.
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However, inserting it into walls of stone or any non-uniform areas can be highly difficult and there might not be any guarantee that it has been done right. This is because for the effectiveness of such chemical products as damp proofing, there should be a layer of liquid or cream set uniformly so that it can stop the water vapour from passing and moving into
wall. There might be some damp proofing companies which claim to insert chemical DPC in stone wall construction, but you should be cautious and ask if they can test the system they have installed. The answer to this will be no, because it is not possible.
In comparison, putting physical membrane is considered the ideal way and the biggest advantage of using this is that you can easily get sheet product that can be mechanically fixed to damp stone. You can then apply plaster to finish it, and it will prove highly effective in
stopping dampness. This is considered a safe method because these membranes are dimpled which help to create air gap. This lets the wall to be completely dry over time, which is easily possible if heating system is present in the building. Any staining caused by salts that might
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come out of structure will also not affect the internal finishes.These products work highly effectively and their efficiency makes them incomparable to any other product, especially in cases of stone structures. As you are not required to do any surface preparation, thus the building will look perfect, internally and externally. It does not only assure the effectiveness of the procedure but also takes away the risk of any issues emerging later on, thus saving you from dealing with them in future.