With damp proofing products widely available in DIY stores, it's tempting to have a go yourself. Here's an honest assessment of where DIY works — and where it doesn't.
Where DIY Can Work
- Surface mould removal — Commercial biocidal sprays can kill mould on surfaces. This is a genuine DIY job.
- Improving ventilation — Fitting a humidity-controlled extractor fan in a bathroom or kitchen can significantly reduce condensation.
- Sealing minor external cracks — Small cracks in render or brickwork can be filled with an appropriate exterior sealant.
Where DIY Falls Short
Rising damp — Chemical DPC injection requires specialist equipment and materials. The plaster must be hacked off and replaced with salt-resistant renovating plaster — a two-part job that goes wrong easily without experience.
Penetrating damp — Identifying the exact entry point of water requires knowledge and experience. DIY waterproof paint on the inside often traps moisture in the wall, making matters worse.
Dry rot — This is a serious structural issue requiring complete removal and treatment of surrounding masonry with specialist fungicide. DIY treatment is never sufficient.
The Risk of Getting It Wrong
Incorrect damp treatment doesn't just fail — it can actively make the problem worse. Sealing a wall from the inside when water is still entering from outside creates pressure that damages the structure. Treating condensation as rising damp wastes money on injections that do nothing.
Always get a professional survey before starting any damp treatment work.
Need Help with This?
Shadbolt Plastering provides professional plastering and damp proofing across South London and Surrey. Call us for a free assessment.
Call 07803 461497