PCA CERTIFIED
Rising Damp Treatment in London
At Dampstar, we provide professional rising damp services and treatments that focus on identifying the cause of the problem before recommending the most appropriate solution. Every property is different, which is why accurate diagnosis forms the foundation of every project we undertake.
What Is Rising Damp?
Rising damp occurs when moisture from the ground travels upwards through brickwork and mortar by capillary action. A functioning damp proof course (DPC) is designed to prevent this movement, but if it has failed, been bridged or is no longer effective, moisture can begin to rise through the walls.
As the moisture moves upwards, it carries naturally occurring salts into the plaster and masonry. Over time, these salts can cause decorative finishes to fail, leaving walls stained, damaged and difficult to maintain.
Because similar symptoms can also be caused by condensation or penetrating damp, a professional survey is essential before any treatment is carried out.
Signs Of Rising Damp
Rising damp only affects the lower part of a wall, roughly up to a metre high but can rise much higher.
Here’s what to look out for:
- A “tide mark” on the wall:Â a horizontal band of damp, discolouration, or staining, usually ending at a similar height all the way along the wall.
- Peeling or bubbling paint and wallpaper: moisture trapped underneath pushes the surface finish away from the wall.
- A musty, damp smell: especially noticeable in enclosed rooms or if you’ve been away for a few days.
- Crumbling or flaky plaster: salts carried up with the moisture can break down the plaster over time.
- White, powdery salt deposits: these are salts left behind once the water evaporates. As these salts are Hygroscopic, they will continue to attract moisture from their surroundings, further exacerbating the problem.
- Skirting boards that feel soft or are rotting: timber attached to or embedded into the affected wall can absorb moisture from the damp wall and lead to rot.
How to Treat Rising Damp
Rising damp shouldn’t be covered up with a quick fix, as this only masks the problem and adds more cost later. At Dampstar, we take a survey-led approach, so any treatment addresses the root cause rather than just the symptoms.
A thorough damp survey
Before any work begins, we carry out a paid survey of your property to confirm the cause and extent of the damp. This is especially important if you’re buying, selling, or letting a property, as this gives you professional advice, clarity and certainty that your damp concerns will be resolved.
A detailed, no-obligation quotation
If damp is found during the survey, Dampstar will provide you with a clear, itemised quotation for the recommended repairs, at no extra cost. This means you know exactly what’s involved and what it will cost before any work starts.
Targeted treatment based on survey findings
Rather than a one-size-fits-all fix, treatment is tailored to what the survey uncovers, whether that’s installing a damp proof course or addressing the root cause identified. This ensures the problem is properly resolved, not just temporarily masked.
Why Choose Dampstar?
As a trusted, expert local team, we combine traditional craftsmanship with modern methods, delivering reliable, on-time damp proofing results property owners can depend on.
Expertise
Our team has many years of hands-on experience dealing with all types of damp in London’s unique building landscape.
Honest assessments
We provide clear, transparent reports and never recommend work you don’t need.
Guaranteed work
Many of our services come with long-term guarantees for your peace of mind.
Full compliance
All our damp-proofing treatments are fully compliant with UK building regulations and industry standards.
Our excellent reputation
Our many 5 star Google reviews speak for themselves.
Trusted, PCA Certified Damp Proofing Services
Accreditations & Certifications
Our accreditations reflect our commitment to the highest standards in damp proofing, waterproofing and timber preservation. As PCA-certified damp and timber surveyors, we follow industry best practices, use proven methods and deliver work you can trust. Explore our professional accreditations and see why homeowners, landlords and commercial clients choose Dampstar.
What Our Clients Say
Damp Proofing in London Since 1960
Dampstar are based in Chiswick, West London, but provide rising damp treatment across the whole of London and Hertfordshire.
Our Services
Damp can lead to mould growth, damaged plaster, timber decay and poor indoor air quality if left untreated.
Black Mould
Black mould causes toxic fungal growth on surfaces, causing breathing problems and allergic reactions.
Trapped steam from cooking and showering causes condensation on and around windows.
Moisture can lead to wet rot, dry rot and woodworm infestations, putting your property’s structural timber at risk.Â
Effective waterproofing protects your property from water ingress, damp, mould and costly structural damage.Â
Rising Damp FAQs
How do I know if I have rising damp?
Rising damp often appears as damp patches along the lower part of internal and external walls, together with bubbling paint, damaged plaster, salt deposits or deteriorating skirting boards. These symptoms can also be caused by other forms of damp, so a professional survey is recommended before treatment.
What causes rising damp?
Rising damp occurs when moisture from the ground is able to travel upwards through brickwork because the damp proof course has deteriorated, is missing or is no longer functioning effectively.
How is rising damp treated?
Treatment involves installing a new damp proof course through injection to prevent further moisture movement up the walls. Replastering and other remedial work will also be required.
Can rising damp be fixed permanently?
When rising damp has been correctly diagnosed and the appropriate remedial work is carried out, a new damp proof course provides long-term protection against moisture travelling through the masonry.
Will treating rising damp involve a lot of disruption?
Some work, such as replastering or installing a damp proof course, will involve a degree of disruption, but the team will keep this to a minimum.
Can I treat rising damp myself?
Surface treatments like repainting won’t resolve the underlying cause. A professional survey is needed to identify the source and recommend a lasting solution.
Which areas do you cover?
Dampstar provides rising damp treatment throughout London and across Hertfordshire, supporting homeowners, landlords and property professionals with expert surveys and remedial solutions.
Book A Survey
DAMPSTAR
Hours
- Mon 08:00 – 17:00
- Tue 08:00 – 17:00
- Wed 08:00 – 17:00
- Thu 08:00 – 17:00
- Fri 08:00 – 17:00
- Sat 09:00 – 17:00
- Sun Closed
