As a damp proof course fails, damage occurs to lower wall areas. This includes disruption to plaster and often decay affecting timbers in contact with the damp walls. Early signs of a damp problem may include discolouration of decorations on wall surfaces.
Rising damp brings with it destructive nitrate and chloride salts from the ground. These salts are often hygroscopic in nature. At times of high humidity the salts absorb moisture from the air adding to the overall damp problem.
The solution to rising damp in an existing property is a remedial damp proof course. This process involves removing the affected plaster and skirting boards, installing a new chemical damp proof course, re-plastering with salt resistant plaster and renewing the skirting boards. Existing skirting boards may be retained if they are in good condition.
