Rising Damp
A council run site we regularly provide tank emptying services for reported a significant level of rising damp in the main utility block. On investigation we found that there was no provision for water drainage in the original building construction. Rain water was pooling around the exterior walls of the block causing damp internally.
Rising damp is especially common in older buildings where a damp proof course (DPC) wasn’t incorporated into the build. Without a DPC or with a damaged PDC groundwater can freely permeate the masonry and cause ‘ascent of moisture through capillaries in masonry’, also known as ‘rising damp.’
If left, drainage issues can cause structural damage to buildings. Long term dampness can lead to mould, decaying skirting boards, blistering and peeling of decorative surfaces and damaged render.
Our drainage team set to work digging a drainage channel around the affected area. Once the channel had been dug (with a fall towards the new drain), they installed Aco drainage channels which were then connected to the nearest manhole.
Aco drains are used for surface water management for external and internal applications. The slotted surface allows the water to drain into the channel and provides efficient conveyance of water away from the building. This resolved the issue of water sitting at the base of the walls which can cause not only rising damp but long term damage to the building structure.
After installation it is important to maintain the drainage system to ensure debris does not build up and cause blockages within the channel.