How to Choose the Best Damp Proof Course for Your Property

Damp is one of the most frustrating problems that property owners can have. It affects everything, from the way a building looks, smells, and feels, to the health of a building’s occupants and its structural integrity. That is why it is important for buildings to have a properly installed damp proof course, or DPC. This quick how-to guide explains what a DPC does, the different types available, and how to choose the right one for your property.

What is a DPC?

A damp proof course is simply a protective layer installed at the base of a property’s walls to stop them absorbing moisture from the ground. Groundwater can seep into the cracks of porous materials like brick and mortar, then rise up them through a process called capillary action before emerging on the interior walls. This is known as rising damp, and a DPC prevents this by creating a barrier between groundwater and a building’s bricks.

DPCs have been mandated by building regulations in many countries for several decades, but some older buildings still lack them. The materials and installation methods have also changed over time, and properties that were built using older methods may find that their DPC is now defective. In either case, it is sensible to have the DPC replaced, and there are several ways to do this.

Physical Damp Proof Courses

Physical DPCs are one of the oldest long-term damp-proof solutions, and they can still be highly effective. These are layers of solid, impermeable materials like slate, bitumen, or plastic that are placed between bricks. DPC membranes made from modern materials like high-density polyethylene are also used. Generally, physical DPCs are installed during construction or when extensively renovating a property, as retrofitting them is difficult and costly.

Chemical Damp Proof Courses

When installing a physical DPC isn’t feasible, chemical DPCs offer a convenient alternative. These are installed by drilling holes at the base of walls, then injecting chemicals that spread through the brickwork to create a moisture barrier. These are easier to apply, suitable for a variety of different wall types, and they can be use to target specific walls that are suffering from rising damp. They are less durable than physical DPCs, but can still last decades when applied properly.

Which Approach is Best?

The best option depends on your situation. Start by considering your property’s age and materials. There are different types of physical and chemical DPCs, and some may not be suitable for certain buildings. You should also consider how much disruption you can tolerate, as retrofitting or repairing a physical DPC requires a lot of work. Of course, you also need to think about your budget, and you may wish to consider the eco-friendliness of the materials.

Seeking an expert’s opinion is also important for picking the right approach. Look for a damp specialist who has lots of experience solving damp issues in your local area, as they will know what methods work best in properties like yours. To speak to damp specialists in London, call London Damp Proofing Ltd on 0208 226 6330.