damp proof tracking

What Is Damp Proof Tanking And Why Its Vital For Below Ground Areas?

Many people don’t tend to focus on the concern of damp until it becomes an issue. It’s sometimes difficult to understand why you would need to consider damp proofing if there is no evidence of damp. It’s always better to prevent a problem, rather than to having to solve one, Here is what damp proofing entails and why it is vital for below ground areas.

What is damp proof tanking?

Damp is prevented from seeping through walls using a method called tanking. Tanking is basically waterproofing walls with a damp proof liquid membrane or tanking slurry. The method required would depend on your requirements and type of damp. The application is often completed on damp walls, or any wall that is below ground level (even if damp doesn’t appear to be visible). Any wall below ground level would be at particular risk of damp issues, so the application would be recommended even if there isn’t an issue at present. If there is currently a damp issue, any plaster that has been contaminated already would be removed to treat the problem properly rather than just covering it up.

Why damp proof tanking is vital for below ground areas.

Condensation can form on any wall that is colder indoors than outdoors. Below ground level areas will not have undergone a damp proof course, so the walls will be expected to contain much more moisture than the rest of the home.  Water from the surrounding ground can seep into the walls adding even more moisture and making damp issues inevitable. You need to ensure the wall stays dry, and this is only really achievable for below ground areas using damp proof tanking.

If the basement is affected by damp issues, then living conditions can be poor and an array of problems can arise. Below are some of the issues that damp in a basement can cause;

  • Cracks in walls of your foundations, which will allow even more moisture to seep in.
  • Hydrostatic pressure will cause water from the soil to force its way in.
  • Water running down the surface of the foundations.
  • Water ingress.

These problems can be avoided, which is much cheaper than fixing them. A closed area prone to damp, humid conditions should be protected. If you are using it as a living space the lack of damp proofing can affect health and damage the interior of your home. If the space is used for storage, damp can damage personal belongings.

Tanking forms a water-repellent, waterproof barrier preventing moisture and water from the earth seeping into your walls. Once the tanking process is completed and a breathable render is applied and left to set, you can decorate the surface and add your finishing touches. Get advice on the best supplies to use when decorating to ensure your damp proofing works to the maximum.

If the job isn’t completed properly, then you will only have a temporary fix and future problems will arise that will leave you out of pocket.