How to Damp Proof a Wall

Why Damp Proofing Is Essential

Damp problems can cause serious structural damage to your home and lead to health issues such as respiratory infections, allergies, and asthma. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to protect your property or a tenant struggling with damp in a rented home, knowing how to damp-proof a wall is crucial.

If you’re renting and damp issues persist because your landlord has failed to act, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact the Housing Disrepair Team today for free advice on making a housing disrepair claim.

What Causes Damp in Walls?

Before you start damp proofing, it’s essential to understand what’s causing the problem. Common causes include:

• Rising damp from the ground

• Penetrating damp due to leaking roofs, gutters, or pipes

• Condensation from poor ventilation and heating

• Cracks in external walls or broken seals around windows and doors

Identifying the root cause will help you choose the right damp proofing method.

How to Damp Proof a Wall – Step-by-Step

Step 1: Identify the Type of Damp

First, determine whether you are dealing with rising damp, penetrating damp, or condensation. Rising damp typically appears as tide marks on walls. Penetrating damp often shows up as patches on walls, especially after rain. Condensation damp usually appears in colder parts of the house.

If you’re unsure about the type of damp affecting your home, seek professional advice to avoid wasting time and money on the wrong solution.

Step 2: Fix the Source of Moisture

Before treating the walls, you must address the source of moisture. Otherwise, the damp will return even after treatment. Common fixes include:

• Repairing broken gutters or pipes

• Sealing cracks in external walls

• Improving ventilation in the home

• Installing extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms

If you are renting and the problem is due to structural issues, your landlord is responsible for making the repairs.

Step 3: Apply a Damp Proof Course (DPC)

If rising damp is the problem, a Damp Proof Course is necessary. There are two main options:

Chemical Damp Proof Course

A chemical DPC involves injecting a water-repellent solution into the wall to create a barrier against moisture. This method is widely used and relatively affordable.

Physical Damp Proof Course

A physical DPC involves inserting a layer of impermeable material, such as plastic or bitumen, into the wall. This is more invasive and typically done during construction or major renovations.

Step 4: Use Damp Proof Paint or Membranes

For internal walls suffering from minor damp issues, you can:

• Apply damp proof paint designed to resist moisture

• Install damp-proof membranes behind plasterboard

• Use tanking slurry for basement walls

These treatments help prevent moisture from seeping through the walls into your living spaces.

If you are tired of temporary fixes and want permanent solutions for your rental property, start a damp and mould claim with us today.

Step 5: Replaster and Repaint

Once the wall is treated, you may need to:

• Remove salt-contaminated plaster

• Replaster the wall with a damp-resistant plaster

• Repaint using breathable, mould-resistant paint

This ensures the wall remains dry and attractive long term.

Can Tenants Damp Proof Their Homes?

While tenants can take simple measures like using dehumidifiers and keeping rooms ventilated, major damp proofing work, such as installing a DPC, should be handled by the landlord.

If your landlord refuses to repair damp or mould problems after you’ve reported them, you may have the right to make a housing disrepair claim.

Preventing Future Damp Problems

To reduce the risk of damp returning:

• Ventilate rooms daily

• Keep furniture slightly away from walls

• Heat your home evenly

• Repair minor leaks quickly

• Use moisture absorbers in humid rooms

Prevention is always cheaper and easier than dealing with major damp damage.

Struggling with Damp in Your Rented Home?

You shouldn’t have to live with damp, mould, or structural damage. If your landlord has failed to fix the problem, the Housing Disrepair Team can help you.

We specialise in no-win, no-fee housing disrepair claims, helping tenants across the UK get repairs done and claim compensation.

Please Note: The solicitor we recommend will charge you a fee of 36% (inclusive of VAT) off your compensation. The solicitor may charge a termination fee if you cancel your agreement with them after the cancellation period, please read their Terms and conditions for more information.

Contact Us Today for Free Expert Advice:

• Fill out our online claim form

• Read our complete guide: How to Remove Mould from Walls

• Find out if you’re eligible for a damp and mould claim