Damp Proof Course Above Internal Floor Level

Selection of materials for damp proof course in buildings.

Damp proof course above internal floor level.

Generally damp proofing keeps moisture out of a building where vapor barriers keep interior moisture from getting into walls. Where it is not possible to insert a damp proof course 150 mm above the external ground level for example if the building has a solid external wall and the internal floor level is less than 150 mm above the external ground level external drainage solutions may be necessary such as the installation of a french drain. Depending on the extent of the rising damp this can be a more costly and extensive job to repair. Damp below damp proof course level.

The below diagram shows what bridging of the damp proof course looks like. Waterproof is defined by the astm as a treatment that resists the passage of water under pressure. Types of materials for damp proof course. Dpc material for situations where differential thermal movements occur.

Dpc material for floors roofs etc. A quick summary checklist. Rising damp usually occurs in masonry walls because of the failure or absence of a damp proof course although poor sub floor ventilation and bad site drainage can also be contributors. Damp proofing is defined by the american society for testing and materials astm as a material that resists the passage of water with no hydrostatic pressure.

As it dries out the damp retreats slowly back to the points of ingress so if you are not able to see any isolated damp areas either ventilate and heat or shut all the doors and windows and use a dehumidifier. Methods of damp proof course installation in construction. Tip 1 if a concrete floor is damp all over it is hard to isolate the moisture source. External ground levels ideally need to be lowered 150mm below the damp proof course or the internal flooring.

By simply lowering external ground levels this will allow wall base evaporation to help control rising dampness.