Your basement is usually used as a storage area, but it is not a very good storage space unless you really look into damp proof companies Kent. If you do not damp proof Kent, you run the risk of ruining precious mementos or even seasonal clothes that you were meant to reuse. What causes dampness in your basement, and how can you prevent moisture damage from happening?

What is penetrating damp?

Technically speaking, penetrating damp is the result of moisture making its way into your building. It is also called lateral damp and is one of the most frequent reasons why homeowners need to consult with damp proof companies Kent.

Leaky pipes

The primary culprits of penetrating damp are leaky pipes. This can be a major problem in your home as the pipes could be inside your home’s walls. While some homeowners might find DIY solutions like cement sealants tempting, it’s still better to contact professional damp proof companies Kent to have this resolved. Cement sealants could solve the problem for a few days. However, the leaked water could cause mould growth as it collects. It can also compromise the strength of your home’s beams.

Poor brickwork

Sometimes, your home just was not built that well to begin with. Poor brickwork can let moisture in from the ground. As a result, groundwater during the rainy season can collect and compromise the walls of your basement. To prevent this, you could have gutters and drains constructed so that they lead water away from your home’s walls.

Deteriorated mortar joints

You must also have your mortar joints checked once in a while. Deteriorated mortar joints can cause compromised foundations in your home, which could trigger pipes to leak as well. You may have to have mortar joints replaced or reinforced to keep the water from your basement walls.

Why bother?

Penetrating damp can be unsafe for your home. This is why it is absolutely necessary to contact damp proof companies Kent before the problem overtakes your home. Neglected penetrating damp problems can cause mold growth, which could be detrimental to your health. A compromised wall foundation can also lead your home to crumble at the slightest earthquake or other natural disaster.

Annual home checkups to see if damp appears in your home is recommended. Usually, signs of penetrating damp include leaky roofs, obvious signs of timber rot, damp patches on the wall that never seem to dry and a musty smell that does not go away.

Rot that has been unaddressed but is already dry will also need to be repaired. You may need to dry out and replaster parts of your home to renew its strength and reliability.

J.H. Garlick is a well-known build and damp repair company you can trust. They have been operating for 50 years, and this experience cannot be matched. They specialise in condensation control, damp control and repair, and timber deterioration repair.

You may call them via 0800 0966941. They also offer long term guarantees for their work, mostly spanning for 10 years. You may also email your inquiries to [email protected].