The Problem: rising damp in a tenanted flat

A brick house built in the 1900s had been converted to create a ground floor flat, but the physical DPC had subsequently failed. During the winter some damp problems became particularly bad, affecting internal wall surfaces and the indoor environment. Garfield Preservation was called in, who found that the ground floor walls had rising damp and that there were also issues with condensation and mould. As the flat was occupied by a tenant, the landlord was keen to have the damp problems rectified without causing prolonged disruption.

The solution: half height replastering and a quick turnaround

When the plasterwork was examined it was found that rising damp had only affected the lower wall sections. The Dryzone System can be easily adapted to smaller areas, and would provide a quick method for carrying out half height replastering. The rising damp treatment and replastering could be completed in a day, meaning far less disruption for the tenant than if a sand/cement render were used. This can also leave a colder surface, which may exacerbate condensation and mould growth - particularly where these are already present. The Dryzone System offers a warmer surface, and combined with ventilation measures works to help reduce condensation.

A new damp-proof course with Dryzone

Works commenced by removing affected plaster to half height, and injecting a Dryzone cream damp-proof course. This is a highly effective way of creating a replacement barrier to rising damp when an existing physical course has failed.

Quick replastering for a clean, damp-free finish

The exposed brickwork was then primed with Dryshield Cream. This white cream turns clear as it sinks into the wall, which takes about 30 minutes to absorb. Sections of plasterboard were cut to size, and Drygrip adhesive applied to them in small evenly-spaced dabs. The plasterboard was offered up to the wall and fixed in place by pressing gently. An air gap was left that stops the board being in direct contact with the wall. As the adhesive resists salt and damp, all residual rising damp and groundwater salts cannot migrate into the plasterboard and the wall could safely dry out. A plaster skim was then applied.

Tenant back in flat within the day

The job was completed within a day, and the landlord and tenant very pleased with the finished works. The new interior is clean, damp-free and the tenant could return on the same day. Mr Garfield of Garfield Preservation is particularly happy with the Dryzone System, as it offers a much cleaner and quicker alternative he can offer his customers.