The diagnosis of rising damp can be made by a suitably qualified and experienced surveyor using an electrical moisture meter correctly. The reading from the Protimeter device, together with the physical evidence should provide the correct diagnosis. These non-invasive techniques can also be supplemented with calcium carbide meter testing or gravimetric methods to determine the moisture content of the wall with greater accuracy.
One technique that is quick and simple to undertake is salts analysis.
Rising damp allows chlorides and nitrates to be drawn up a wall where they are left behind when evaporation takes place. Salts can build up to high concentrations, particularly in the plaster, and because chlorides and nitrates are hygroscopic, they absorb moisture directly from the air. This process causes the plaster to exhibit dampness, and the salts and the moisture that they absorb is detectable with an electronic moisture meter.
If chlorides and nitrates are present in masonry or plaster it provides strong evidence that rising damp has been occurring. Proving whether or not these salts are present in the plaster is relatively easy. Britannia Preservation's surveyors can carry out qualitative salts analysis using various methods. One common technique involves removing a sample of wall covering or plaster from the wall and mixing with distilled water to form a solution. Chemicals, in the form of pills, are added to this solution and cause it to change colour if chlorides or nitrates are present.
This pale yellow solution proves that chlorides are present. |
The dark red solution proves that nitrates have been found. |
Salts analysis can be a very useful method of determining if rising damp is the cause of dampness and Britannia Preservation routinely carry out this service as it provides a crucial aid to correct diagnosis. We also provide an off-site remote diagnostic service. By simply removing a small sample of plaster or wall covering and sending it to us, we can carry out salts analysis and advise you if chlorides or nitrates are present.
As one of the leading experts in damp and timber rot, not just in the Yorkshire area, but in the whole of the United Kingdom, we go much further to establish the cause of damp than our competitors. We want to make sure that we get the diagnosis right so that we can quickly draw up a program of works which will eradicate the problem. The wrong diagnosis can leave you out of pocket as well as create further problems which can be harder to rectify.
Contact us today to find out why we are Yorkshire’s leading experts in damp, timber rot and remedial services.
© Britannia Preservation 2011