**Please read this page carefully. Leslie Cornell Building Restoration Ltd do not advise, supply or install Modern Damp Proofing Materials or Techniques**
We are contacted by Clients who have been informed by ‘Qualified Surveyors’ and Damp Proofing Specialists in Cornwall that damp proofing their property is required, but in order to limit damp in old walls in Cornwall you need to understand the materials from which your building has been constructed. This understanding and knowledge is key to maintaining a damp free environment and this is where Leslie Cornell Building Restoration Ltd can help you.
Identifying the cause of any damp is the first step to addressing the problem, followed by the appropriate methods for damp limitation.
There are many different damp proofing systems used in the construction industry and can, where inappropriately applied, cause more harm than good.
Some examples of these damp proofing systems and the reasons they are not always appropriate for use in old buildings in Cornwall are:
- Tanking (either in sheet or slurry form) – These systems used to ‘damp proof’ old walls in Cornwall are designed to seal the surfaces to prevent damp penetrating the wall. This method can trap moisture behind the coating, thus forcing it to move and cause problems elsewhere.
- Injection damp proof course – Chemicals are injected into holes that have been drilled into the mortar joints of the wall or brickwork (traditional and modern), so it can penetrate the masonry to provide a water repellent barrier. The materials used in these systems are non-breathable and will restrict the natural movement of moisture, resulting in the build-up of moisture which will cause even damper areas elsewhere.
Old walls in Cornwall were constructed using Cob, stone or brick, and need to be maintained using breathable materials.
There are many damp limitation measures that we implement to manage the moisture content within a wall and they have a very effective and positive outcome for limiting damp problems, negating the need for installing damp proofing systems in Cornwall. For more information, please see our Damp Limitations page.
For further information about Damp in Old Buildings and Walls, please have a look at the links below:
Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings
Before spending money on damp proofing systems in Cornwall, please Contact Us for some professional and friendly advice on your project.
For more information about the terminology used within this website, please have a look at our Glossary.
If you have any questions about Historic Building Restoration in Cornwall, please visit our FAQ page.
Damp Proofing Cornwall – Damp in Old Buildings Cornwall – Damp Contractors Cornwall
