Rising Damp

Rising damp is usually found by the signs of a damp line appearing on the inside wall. This is often combined with damage to skirting board and decorations.
 
The result of this rising damp is structural damage to interior render- plaster systems. It should also be noted that recent findings by the asthma foundation concluded that damp rooms can increase the risk of developing asthma. Rising damp occurs when ground water is allowed to rise vertically through walls by capillary action and is caused by the breakdown of, bridging of, or non existence of, a damp proof course (DPC). Thus the dampness is rising through the actual mortar beds rather than through the brickwork itself.  

If left unchecked it will rot any floor joists and other interior timber it comes into contact with, culminating in the development of wet rot or dry rot if conditions of lack of ventilation
allow.

The damage caused by water is very often concealed behind plaster, under floorboards, in brickwork etc; leaks can remain undetected for long periods allowing huge reservoirs of water to build up and be contained within the fabric of the building and only by following a 'Trail of Suspicion' can the original source be traced and remedial measures contemplated.

Type Of Damp                  Problem                                                 Cause                                                    Remedy

Rising Damp	Dampness, usually at ground level Staining of the inner wall at low level Skirting board decay Rusting of nails in the skirting Damage to plaster	No Damp Proof Course (DPC) installed DPC has failed DPC is below ground level	DPC Injection
Penetrating Damp	Damage to plaster Water ingress Timber decay	Outside problem such as faulty guttering, pointing or overflows	Building Maintenance Required
Lateral Damp	Presence of salt on the walls Damage to plaster Water ingress Timber decay	Failure or lack of DPC  Raised soil level	Tanking System
Condensation	Timber decay Mould Staining Water on windows or sills Water on walls	Poor air circulation or ventilation High temperature fluctuations Excessive moisture vapour	More Heat and Ventilation Required