What Does Damp Proofing Cost?
For many of our customers, the first question they ask is, “How much does damp proofing cost?” This is an understandable question, given that it is a stressful time and we are not an everyday expense.
We also often find that they have either had a bad experience with another provider or have bought into the misconceptions which float around our industry, making them apprehensive.
However, the cost of avoiding the issue can escalate significantly, potentially leading to more extensive and expensive repairs in the future.
Getting to the root of the problem is the best way to avoid unnecessary expense, but this can be easier said than done. Dampness can occur in a property for a whole host of reasons. It can vary widely based on the type and age of a property, which will dictate the appropriate technique and materials used to solve the problem.
So enlisting the support of a professional can make all the difference.
We wanted to allay some of the fears around damp proofing costs by presenting a few case studies that outline roughly the financial commitment required.
Identifying Damp Issues
Understanding the types of damp problems is crucial, as with any complex problem and potential solution, success results from the correct diagnosis. This knowledge empowers you to take the right steps in addressing the issue.
Three main damp problems can affect your property;
Rising damp
Rising damp occurs when groundwater soaks up into unprotected brickwork or stone masonry. It attacks the soft mortar in between the bricks, weakening them. The salt and other chemicals in the water will adversely affect your decor, staining your wall. It may also lead to timber decay.
Penetrating damp
Penetrating damp is the process by which water enters the building from sources other than the ground up. It is often the result of broken rainwater goods or issues with your roof seeping into your brickwork. Again, this will almost certainly affect the decor in your house.
Condensation
Condensation is one of the most common causes of damp in a household. It is the result of warmer air within a property coming into contact with cooler surfaces, such as the steam from a shower room. Some simple fixes are available, such as opening the bathroom window when showering or finding a consistent temperature in your house.
Avoid Guestimation
The cost of each damp treatment depends on a thorough investigation of the specific issues. The value of guesstimating is limited as the long-term costs will only increase if the wrong treatment is implemented and subsequently fails. We are regularly called upon to remedy work that has failed because of an incorrect diagnosis.
That is why a damp survey becomes invaluable. The survey will highlight the real issue behind the dampness, the extent of the problem and any potential solution.
Damp Proofing Costs Less Than You Think
We have attended many properties where the homeowners are concerned that rectifying the damp problem they have found will cost thousands.
So, it is often a pleasant surprise when we inform them that, after an inspection, the damp proofing cost will be minimal, and they require some general maintenance work.
It could be as simple as clearing blockages in the guttering, repairing defective pointing, and removing wall foliage so that the damp issues can dry out over time with the right internal environmental conditions.
Unfortunately, there are occasions when the situation requires more extensive work. Still, you can be sure we will never suggest a solution that’s not needed, and our extensive damp survey will detail everything.
Assessing The Problem
Assessing a damp issue is rarely straightforward. Possible causes include leaking pipework within walls or under flooring, cracked or split plinths, missing roof tiles, blocked drains, and even dogs using a corner of a room as their toilet!
However, the cause must be established before a solution is offered. That has always been and will always be our policy at South East Timber and Damp.
Damp Proofing Cost Case Studies
So, to help you understand how the cost of damp proofing works, we have pulled together a few example scenarios we have encountered in our work in and around Kent and South East London.
But for more, please also see our detailed case studies of damp, timber, and waterproofing surveys we have carried out.
Property One
1900, 4-bed detached home.
Problem – Damp Walls
This is one of the most common problems we come across. Rising damp within one room that’s causing damp patches on all four walls.
Whether it comes in from the roof down or up from the floor, dampness on your walls is a sure sign you have a problem. Quick identification of the problem with a damp survey and the right solution will save you a lot of problems in the long run.
Solution
With one room and four walls to be remedied, we would recommend a full-height vertical system.
This would cost around £4,500+VAT plus possible external maintenance repairs. Works would leave the area full height plastered with the skirtings and covings and electrics re-affixed.
(Exclusive of VAT. For approximate cost ideas only)
Property Two
200 yr old, two-bed mid-terrace Victorian cottage
Problem – Damaged or Faulty Damp Proof Course
We have come across a number of older properties where the is no original damp proof course or the existing damp proof course has failed for a range of reasons. Very often, it is down to alterations made within the garden.
On this occasion, we found rising dampness which was the result of there being no original damp-proof course at either the front or back of the property. Strangely, there was no visible decorative spoiling, but we were able to identify the problem.
Solution
On this occasion, the appropriate solution was a Damp Proof Course injection followed by a period of drying with controlled internal environmental monitoring.
We would estimate this solution to cost around £1,200+VAT.
(Exclusive of VAT. For approximate cost ideas only)
Property Three
1990s, three-bed semi-detached house showing signs of dampness.
Problem – Penetrating Damp
On first viewing, there was no obvious source of dampness; however, our damp survey revealed an issue on the rear external wall that was causing some concern. In our experience, the likelihood of this being rising damp is very low due to modern high-performing damp-proof courses.
Solution
On this occasion, the issue was confirmed as penetrating damp, and general maintenance works to guttering were advised. Over time the dampness would dry out, and there would be a requirement for internal work to be carried out.
The cost would just be the survey fee of £95 to have our surveyor attend and assess.
(Exclusive of VAT. For approximate cost ideas only)
Contact Our Team
As we mentioned, the best way to put your mind at rest is to get a damp survey of the area in question. We will assess your property for damp and discuss any potential solutions.
Or, if you have already engaged a contractor, we can help by giving you a second opinion prior to choosing a contractor to carry out the work.
Get in touch today to arrange a damp survey. Dean would be happy to review the issue and give you the best advice to remedy the problem.