Damp Suspected in the Home? Here are some Inspection Tips for Homeowners

Life can seem to be going along smoothly when a homeowner returns after a shift at work, when they begin to have thoughts that nag away, suggesting that something isn’t quite right. It might be a musty smell that catches their attention, which was passed off as being insignificant, but has gradually grown, or the air seems to be increasingly humid. There are telltale signs that the home is suffering from damp, which requires something to be done about it.

Damp can often sneak up on property owners without too much warning, which is why a regular inspection is something that should be marked down in the diary. It is a common problem which can be dealt with at an early stage without too much trouble, especially when contacting us at London Damp Proofing as we have a range of treatments like damp proofing to stop it from spreading. In the meantime, here are some essential tips for detecting damp in the home.

• Even those with no previous experience can identify moisture. It is evident when looking for visible signs like water stains on the wall or the discolouration of paintwork on walls and ceilings. Sometimes the paint even forms bubbles as the moisture gets in behind it, while wallpaper might start to peel. All of which need immediate attention once a free home inspection has been arranged with us.
• It might require treating penetrating damp to provide the best solution, after a rapid diagnosis has been made. Areas in the home that are most prone to damp are kitchens, bathrooms, basements and around windows, which is why thorough regular inspections should be carried out regularly, just in case anything is slightly hidden.
• Those horrible, musty smells often strike when opening the door after returning home. They are telltale signs that there is damp inside the property and can lead someone investigating directly to it. It will require further expert investigation, particularly where clear signs of mould and mildew are found, as they not only create health issues, but also to the building and its structural integrity.
• Damp penetration in basements can create widespread issues, which is why it is an area of the property that requires increased attention. External defects also require checking for, whether it be cracked rendering or blocked gutters that are letting the water in. At London Damp Proofing, we use a drone with other latest high-tech equipment associated with a progressive outfit so that we can identify any roofing problems.
• Another tool that we may employ is a moisture metre, which is a vast upgrade from the ones that homeowners can purchase to make their initial assessment. It will help to detect dampness in floors, walls, and ceilings, and at least offer those who use it a chance to get the inside track on any problems before they escalate.

Homeowners can identify signs of damp, although those who wish to be certain can do so when they make a home appointment with our team on 0208 226 6330.