A penetrating damp survey will consist of a non destructive examination of the internal and external parts of the building looking for defects to find the exact cause of the problem. Most penetrating damp problems are caused by defective pointing, leaking gutters, defective cracked rendering, porous bricks and stones or even a particular wall that has driving rain against it. Thermal imaging is great for finding the causes of penetrating damp, this can be identified as a cold spot on the wall. Repairs for re-pointing on traditional buildings need to be carried using lime mortar to match the existing, and all external render on traditional buildings is recommended to be replaced with lime mortar-render. Complete Preservation can carry out the traditional lime repair works and advise on the best solution for the problems. Hard cement pointing can also cause penetrating damp, if the pointing is really hard it will trap in the moisture from from wind driven rain and slow any evaporation by the sun and wind. Solid stone walls that have penetrating damp problems can sometimes be because of voids in the walls that allow the penetrating damp to find a path, this will literally run through the wall and normally comes out above windows. We offer a grouting system for this to make the wall solid again, so it will act as when it was first constructed. A survey for this will consist of resistance drilling and a boroscope inspection of voids to determine the extent of grouting necessary.
We also use a product called Stormdry, this product stops rain penetration, saves energy and improves flood resistance, this product is scientifically proven to reduce heat loss in single skin masonry construction with an energy saving of up to 29%. This product is also used to combat condensation problems, as the walls are drier and warmer condensation problems are less likely to occur. Stormdry is a colourless, breathable, water-repellent treatment for brick, concrete and stone walls, it is applied by roller, brush or spray and is UV resistant resulting in a life expectancy of 20-30 years.
Complete Preservation have all the latest equipment on the market which will include moisture meters, thermal imaging cameras, boroscopes, endoscopes, hygrometers, infra red laser measurers and years of professional experience.
Our professional damp survey reports contain a comprehensive assessment of any problems in the building and will include pictures, computer generated drawing of the property along with our recommendations and costs for the remedial work. The Survey will always be carried out by a CSRT qualified surveyor and a member of the Property Care Association as instructed by your professional advisors.
