Dampproof

Dampproof refers to the measures and materials used to prevent moisture from penetrating buildings. In construction and building maintenance, damp-proofing aims to reduce dampness in walls, floors, and foundations that can arise from groundwater, rain penetration, or condensation. The goal is to interrupt the pathways by which water travels through masonry and other building substrates.

Key components of dampproofing include damp-proof courses (DPCs), damp-proof membranes (DPMs), and protective coatings. A DPC is a barrier installed in walls near ground level to block capillary rise of moisture. A DPM is a sheet or membrane placed in floors or walls to resist water transmission. Surface sealants, bituminous coatings, and polymeric coatings can be applied externally or internally to reduce moisture ingress. In retrofit or post-construction work, chemical damp-proofing injections or creams may be used to form water-repellent barriers within masonry.

Dampness in buildings generally falls into three categories: rising damp (from the ground up through walls), penetrating damp (from external sources such as leaks or cracks), and condensation damp (from indoor humidity). Dampproofing addresses these issues through proper barrier installation, improving drainage, and enhancing ventilation and humidity control as part of a broader moisture-management strategy.

Assessment and maintenance are typically conducted by qualified professionals who diagnose the source of damp and recommend appropriate damp-proofing solutions. Regular inspection and timely repairs help prevent damage to plaster, finishes, and structural elements.