Top 5 Indicators of Rising Damp (And What to Do About It)
Do you see weird stains developing on your walls, smell a musty odor in the air, or see the paint bubbling up near your floor? This might not be such a big deal – but it could be evidence of an issue called rising damp
At Kennedy Damp Proofing Ltd, we understand just how fast a damp problem can turn into a damp disaster! That’s why early identification of it is crucial. In this guide, we will take you through the top 5 rising damp related symptoms, describe what is the cause of rising damp and, most importantly, tell you what you can do about it.
What Is Rising Damp, Anyway?
Rising damp occurs when damp from the ground makes its way up through your brickwork or plaster. As a rule, buildings have something called a damp proof course (DPC) in them to prevent this from occurring — but water can begin to rise up your walls if this layer has been damaged or bypassed in some way.
The results? Not good. Rising damp doesn’t just appear unsightly—it also has the potential of weakening your premises, fostering the growth of mould and wrecking interior finishes.
5 Top Warning Signs of Rising Damp
Tide Marks Along the Wall
Here's one of the most striking signs. Seek a brownish or darker horizontal patch running along the bottom of your wall — generally around 1 metre up from the floor. Those marks are the residual salts and minerals in your water as it separated out in evaporation.
Tip: Tide marks typically come after rain or in older homes without newer damp protection.
Peeling Paint or Bubbling Wallpaper
As the water moves up the wall, it damages the adhesive bond between the surface and the paint or wallpaper. You may see bubbling, flaking, or some of your wallpaper may pull away.
Tip: Consider looking behind furniture along exterior walls, a place you might not immediately see the issue.
A Musty or Damp Smell Indoors
Before it comes into view, you might scent the problem. Rising damp tends to produce a musty damp smell, one that tends to linger, particularly in older houses, or rooms with poor ventilation such as hallways or basements.
Tip: If your home feels musty even after a deep clean, it’s worth looking for moisture.
White powder substance on walls, what is it? (efflorescence)
Do you see any chalky white spots on your wall or brick? That’s efflorescence — a blatant indication that water is passing through your wall and leaving minerals behind. It appears to be dust, but it tends to return after you’ve cleaned it.
Tip: Finding efflorescence? Your damp proof course probably needs some help.
Decaying or Bend Skirting Boards and Floors
Wood and water don’t mix. If you see your skirting boards warping, crumbling or even beginning to rot, rising damp might be the reason. This type of damage can quickly spread and become costly if not treated.
Soft, spongy floors or soft, puffy feeling floors near the walls – that is a safety issue that is asking to be fixed ASAP.
What To Do If You See These Signs
Rising damp does not simply disappear — and unfortunately, it usually only gets worse over time. Here’s what we recommend:
Stage 1: Arrange a Free Damp Survey
Don’t guess — have a pro come look at that space. We provide free damp surveys in [Your Service Area] at Kennedy Damp Proofing Ltd. We will look at what’s actually happening inside your walls.
Stage 2: How to replace a Damp Proof Course (DPC)
If your DPC has failed, or you don’t have one, we will use a modern chemical damp proof course, which prevents water from rising through the wall and is guaranteed to last.
Step 3: Fix & Finish Damaged Areas
We will repair any damage as soon as the source is addressed. That involves pulling out damp plaster, liming walls, repairing flooring and putting down fresh paint where necessary.
Step 4: Avoid the Risks In the Future
In others, poor drainage or ventilation can cause damp to deteriorate. We will offer practical guidance on how to keep it from returning — inside and outside your home.
Why Choose Kennedy Damp Proofing?
We are not here to just “patch and go.” Because we’re a local, respected company with years of experience, what we care about is doing the job right—and helping your home remain dry for the long haul.
Free, honest damp inspections
Customized treatments for your home
Local pros you can trust
Fully guaranteed work
Let’s Not Suffer Damp to Spread
If you see any of the warning signs we outlined, the time to take action is right now. Don’t let a little spot become a big headache.
Get in touch today for a free damp survey with Kennedy Damp Proofing Ltd and start your journey to a dryer, healthier home.
