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Damp Proofing Specialists
If you’ve spotted signs of damp in your home, we’re here to help. Peter Cox offers professional damp proofing services tailored to your property. With over 70 years of experience, our qualified damp specialists are trusted across the UK to correctly identify, provide solutions and prevent the damp from returning.
What is damp proofing?
Damp proofing is the process of protecting a property from the damaging effects of excess moisture. Left untreated, damp can lead to structural issues, timber decay, and health problems. At Peter Cox, our trained and experienced damp experts assess the cause, whether it's rising damp, penetrating damp, salt damp or condensation, and recommend effective damp proofing solutions. These can include installing a chemical damp proof course, fitting a damp proof membrane, removing contaminated plaster or improving ventilation - depending on the type of damp. Our professional service ensures long-term protection for your property.
Our damp proofing service
We offer a full range of damp proofing services, delivered by qualified surveyors and technicians. After a thorough inspection, we can provide targeted treatments to eliminate any problems identified and prevent future issues.
Damp proof course
A damp proof course (DPC) is a barrier often installed via chemical injection to stop moisture rising from the ground through brickwork. It’s a reliable method used by our damp proofing specialists to treat rising damp. If your DPC is damaged or missing, our technicians can install a new one, backed by a long-term guarantee. Always seek guidance from a recognised provider like Peter Cox to avoid misdiagnosis and ineffective damp proofing treatments.
Damp proof membrane
A damp proof membrane is a thick plastic sheet that blocks moisture and helps dry out affected walls. We apply it directly to walls after resolving the cause of water ingress. These membranes are ideal for tackling penetrating damp and are commonly used in cellar waterproofing. Our damp proofing experts install them as part of a full remedial solution.
The damp treatment process
- Comprehensive damp inspection by a qualified surveyor.
- Accurate diagnosis of the damp type and severity.
- A detailed report with recommended damp solutions.
- Targeted treatment, such as DPC injection or membrane fitting.
- Plastering and finishing where needed.
- Clean up and final checks to ensure success.
Signs that damp proofing is necessary
Damp can be hard to spot. Common signs include musty smells, peeling paint, black mould, or visible staining on walls. If you’ve noticed any of these, it’s time to act. Explore signs of damp or learn about our condensation solutions.
The different types of damp
These are the main types of damp affect properties:
Rising damp
Rising damp occurs when moisture from the ground moves upwards through porous building materials such as brick and mortar. This usually happens when the original damp proof course (DPC) is missing, damaged, or has deteriorated over time.
The height it rises will depend on how wet the ground is, the pore structure of the masonry and the amount of evaporation, but on average the tide line will be around one metre.
Common signs include discoloured or flaking plaster, tidemarks on walls and a musty smell. Without treatment, rising damp can weaken the structure of your property.
Penetrating damp
Penetrating damp is caused by water entering your home through walls, roofs or windows, typically due to damaged brickwork, blocked gutters, or defective pointing. It often appears as damp patches that worsen during rain and can lead to plaster damage and mould growth.Salts from the ground or building materials often appear on the surface of walls affected by penetrating damp. These may require remedial work to remove the issue long term. Unlike rising damp, penetrating damp can occur at any height and in isolated spots. We treat the source and repair affected areas to stop it from recurring.
Salt Damp
Salt damp is a natural progression of rising damp, when water soluble salts become trapped in the plaster when the water evaporates from the surface. These salts can be hygroscopic, which means they pull atmospheric moisture into the wall.
Condensation
Condensation forms when warm, moist air comes into contact with cooler surfaces like windows and walls. This leads to water droplets forming, which can cause black mould, peeling wallpaper, and damage to paintwork. It's most common in bathrooms, kitchens, and bedrooms. Our surveyors can recommend tailored damp proofing solutions such as positive input ventilation (PIV) systems to manage internal humidity
Why book a professional damp proofing survey?
A professional damp proofing survey ensures a proper diagnosis. Our qualified surveyors use specialist equipment and years of experience to identify the source and suggest the best damp proofing solutions, saving you time and money.
Why choose Peter Cox for damp proofing?
As market leaders, we deliver trusted damp proofing services across the UK. Our technicians are fully certified, our treatments carry long-term guarantees, and we’re backed by leading trade bodies. We also offer rising damp insurance for added peace of mind.
Damp Proofing FAQs
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Does my house have damp proofing in place?
Most UK homes have a built-in DPC, but over time, this barrier can fail or become bridged. Signs like tidemarks or peeling paint may suggest it's no longer effective. If visible on the outside of the property, the physical DPC (slate, bitumen or plastic membrane) should be two brick courses above ground level and may appear as a slightly thicker mortar course. If you're unsure, our qualified surveyors can carry out a thorough damp proofing survey to check whether a DPC is present and working properly.
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How do I stop condensation?
Condensation forms when moist air meets cold surfaces, often in bathrooms or kitchens. Rooms with cold North facing walls often have issues. To reduce condensation, open windows regularly, use trickle vents, extractor fans, and keep your home evenly heated. If the problem persists, we offer damp prevention systems like mechanical ventilation units to control humidity and improve indoor air quality.
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How do I treat a damp basement or cellar?
Basements require specialist treatment as water pressure is greater below ground. We use structural waterproofing solutions such as cementitious tanking, cavity drainage membranes, and sump pump systems. These damp proofing solutions are tailored to each space to keep your basement dry, safe, and usable long term. It is important that ventilation is present, to prevent condensation forming.
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How long does damp proofing take?
The duration depends on the type and extent of damp. A typical damp proofing job in a standard room takes 1–3 days, including installation and drying time. Larger properties or basements may take longer. We always provide a clear timeline after your damp inspection.
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How long does damp proofing last?
When professionally installed, damp proofing treatments can last for decades. Our systems come with long-term guarantees for added peace of mind. Regular maintenance and addressing any underlying issues, like leaks, can further extend the effectiveness of your damp protection.
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How much does damp proofing cost?
Prices vary depending on the type of damp remedial work, the extent of damage, and the size of the property. We offer competitive, transparent pricing. Book a professional damp inspection with our team to receive a tailored quote based on your specific needs.
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Can I deal with damp proofing myself?
DIY solutions may offer short-term relief but rarely fix the root cause. Our damp proofing specialists have the tools and expertise to diagnose and solve issues correctly. Getting it right the first time avoids repeat repairs and ensures long-lasting protection for your home.
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Will the damp proofing specialists clean up afterwards?
Absolutely. Our team uses dust extraction and containment tools throughout the job. Once the damp remedial work is complete, we remove waste and clean the area, leaving your home tidy, safe, and ready for redecoration.
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Next Steps
Our damp services
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