LATERAL DAMP

LATERL DAMP

lateral damp

WHAT IS LATERAL DAMP?

Lateral damp (also known as penetrating damp) is when moisture is allowed to enter the structure in a horizontal direction. Gravity then causes the downward movement of themoisture is allowed to enter the structure in a horizontal direction. Gravity then causes the downward movement of the moisture is allowed to enter the structure in a horizontal direction. Gravity then causes the downward movement of the structure in a horizontal direction. Gravity then causes the downward movement of the damp into other areas. Penetrating damp can create isolated patches of dampness that increase in size after periods of heavy rain.

The damp can occur at any level, unlike Rising Damp which usually rises from the ground up to 1.2 metres high. Lateral or penetrating damp is usually from a source too difficult to control and only an expert with a moisture metre detector can evaluate the difference in rising and lateral damp. Sometimes the problem may also require a plumber to pressure test the pipes to eliminate a leaking pipe being the main problem.

CAUSES OF LATERAL/PENETRATING DAMP

*  leaking water supplies or waste pipe
*  fretted mortar joint
*  defective brickwork
*  failure of tile grouts in showers and other wet areas
*  poorly functioning membrane in wet areas
*  leaking plumbing
*  cracked render
*  poor flashing