Recent heavy rain and flooding has led to property owners are being urged to check for signs of dampness in their property as the continuing higher than average temperatures could provide the perfect conditions for funghi to damage decorations, plaster and timber.
“The recent warm but wet weather has tested many homes across the UK.” says Paul Dunglison of Cavitech UK Ltd.
“Rain and dampness will often find its way in to the cavity wall through cracking in brickwork, mortar or render or even through porous bricks if the rain is relentless. If there is cavity wall insulation, chances are the dampness will soak through to the inside wall.”
The issue can be resolved but this usually involves the extraction of insulation in the affected area, something Cavitech-UK have been doing for many years.
“Removing the fill as soon as possible stops damage to décor but will also prevent mildew, damp or cold spots, fungal decay such as wet rot or dry rot and condensation problems.”
It seems that speed is the key, “Because the cavity is full of insulation there’ll be no adequate air circulation so wet fill just won’t dry on its own.”
To establish if a property is affected, small holes are drilled and by use of a boroscope it is possible to see into the cavity itself. Sample of insulation can be removed and tested for signs of dampness.
For more information see property-care or the Cavitech-UK cavity wall extraction section.