Skill Builder Guides & reviews for building and construction
👇 Materials in this video 👇
Drybase TS-PLUS Tanking Slurry
🛒 https://amzn.to/4iq2apd
Dryzone Hi-Lime Renovation Plaster
🛒 https://safeguardstore.co.uk/dryzone-renovation-plasters
Drybase 3mm Plaster Membrane Mesh
🛒 https://amzn.to/3OE51gB
Thanks to @SafeguardEuropeLtd
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Table of Contents
How to Stop Damp in Your Home: A Comprehensive Guide
Damp issues can wreak havoc on homes, particularly in basements and below-ground areas where moisture is most persistent. Addressing dampness effectively requires careful preparation, the right materials, and a thorough application process. This article explores proven strategies to stop damp for good, based on techniques demonstrated in the video, The Easiest Way To Stop Damp For Good.
Step 1: Preparing the Wall Surface
The first step to stop damp is ensuring a smooth and stable surface. Applying a straightening coat of render is essential to create a flat base. This eliminates any unevenness that could compromise the adhesion of waterproofing materials. For walls with rough brickwork or paint, levelling out the surface is critical to prevent water ingress through gaps or weak points.
Step 2: Applying Polymer-Reinforced Waterproofing
A key innovation to stop damp, is using polymer-reinforced cementitious coatings, such as Safeguard TS+. These coatings are specially designed for below-ground applications. The polymer binds the cement, prevents micro-cracking, and creates a microporous layer that repels water, allowing the wall to “breathe.” This property is crucial for managing trapped moisture and reducing the risk of future damp issues.
The application involves two coats, with 2 to 4 hours of drying between each coat. The colour change from blue to brown indicates readiness for the second coat, ensuring complete coverage and long-term protection.
Step 3: Choosing Advanced Solutions for Severe Cases
In cases of significant water penetration, membrane systems offer an alternative to tanking slurries. These systems create a cavity behind the membrane for moisture to drain into a channel, which can be pumped out. This approach is ideal for basements facing persistent or high-volume water intrusion.
Step 4: Using Breathable Materials for Finishing
For finishing, high lime plaster is an excellent choice. Its breathability allows it to absorb and release condensation, acting as a buffer for moisture. This makes it particularly suitable for damp-prone areas. Additionally, it resists salt ingress, preventing surface deterioration.
Effective damp-proofing requires careful preparation, advanced materials, and the right techniques. Whether using tanking slurries, membrane systems, or breathable plasters, each method addresses specific challenges. Following these steps, homeowners can safeguard their properties and ensure a dry, durable living space.
Try This Before You Spend Money On Damp Problems
