Many people have been getting in touch to ask about damp proofing and condensation problems in kitchens and what can be done about this apparently common problem. We wanted to put together a quick guide for homeowners so that they can better understand this problem and hopefully give them some tips to combat this issue.

What Is Damp Proofing?
Damp proofing is a form of moisture control that is applied to floors, walls and ceilings to stop moisture entering the inside spaces of the building. Dampness problems have been among the major issues faced by many homes across the world. It can be easily prevented by sealing the floor spaces, cracks and gaps with proper waterproofing materials. While it can be used on various types of building structures, it is most effective and reliable on basement walls as they are the largest areas of the building.
Damp proofing is an essential process that should be implemented to maintain the durability and safety of any building, irrespective of the size. It involves the sealing of cracks in the exterior wall or floors as well as preventing water from penetrating inside the room. The first thing that should be done while implementing damp proofing is to seal all possible cracks, openings and penetrations into the wall. Once this is done then the rest of the damp proofing procedure becomes simple and easy. There are various materials that can be used to seal the walls, including wood, cork, carpet, and even glass.

Different Methods Of Damp Proofing
Another method of damp proofing is using carpet as a waterproofing material. This is done by using the moisture resistant foam inside the carpet to soak up the water. Carpet is also available with waterproof membranes on them, which help to protect the carpet from the external environment. However, carpets do not work well on hard wood surfaces as it would get soaked through. In such cases there are special carpets available which are made up of polyurethane or neoprene, which are water resistant.
It is a good idea to hire a professional damp proofer who would carry out the entire project for you, at a reasonable price. There are various companies that offer this service, and you can choose among them according to your budget and requirements. The company will clean all the cracks and holes in your walls, floors and ceilings and also remove any loose and wet masonry. from the walls of the building.

Look Out For The Signs
Once this is done you will then need to seal the external walls of the building with the right waterproofing solution to ensure that there is no leakage in the future. If the walls have cracks, then you will need to replace them. This step is very important and you should not skip this step as it is one of the basic steps of damp proofing, which needs to be followed after doing the above mentioned steps.
When the walls are sealed there is nothing left to do other than to put a layer of insulation over them and leave them for another few months, until the weather gets cooler and the rain or dew falls off the exterior walls. Once the insulation is applied, you can simply open the windows and doors of the building to let some fresh air in and dry the exterior walls before sealing them back to their original state. Damping proofing is a must in all types of buildings, because without it all the structural integrity of the building will be compromised.