One of the major issues in most of the Indian households is concentrated damp walls, particularly during monsoons. If you notice that the paint on your walls is peeling, there is a musty smell, or there is water staining on your walls, it is possible that you have a damp or wet wall issue. Ignoring it can cause damage to your home, impact your health.
In this blog we will be clear about all of the aspects of wall dampness, reasons behind it and easy remedies to repair and avoid it. This guide will assist you in home maintenance and the repair of dampness, moisture, and wall seepage ,whether you rent a home or are its owner.
What is Dampness in a Wall?
Dampness-This refers to the unwanted moisture in the walls. This causes walls to appear wet, peeling off the paint and even water may leak out of the wall. When left untreated, it can over time destroy the structure of your home.
Signs of Damp Walls
You may have a wet wall if you notice:
- Bubbling or peeling paint
- Black patches or mould
- A bad smell coming from the walls
- Visible wall seepage or cracks
- Paint turning powdery
Types of Dampness in Walls
There are 3 main types of wall dampness:
1. Penetrating Dampness
This happens when water enters the wall from outside. Common during monsoons.
Causes:
- Broken or clogged roof gutters
- Cracks in walls
- Gaps near windows or doors
- Water seepage from leaking pipes
Solutions:
- Fix leaking pipes and gutters
- Seal all external cracks
- Replace broken bricks or use waterproof paint
- Use exterior damp proofing coatings
2. Rising Dampness
This occurs when groundwater travels up the wall due to a faulty or missing damp-proof course (DPC).
Causes:
- No DPC installed during construction
- DPC placed too low
- High ground level around the home
Solutions:
- Install or repair the DPC
- Dig soil around the home to lower ground level
- Use waterproof barriers to block moisture
3. Condensation Dampness
This is as a result of moisture indoors such as steam generated during cooking and baths, which accumulates on cold walls.
Causes:
- Poor ventilation
- Lack of sunlight
- Cold walls and floors
Solutions:
- Open windows regularly
- Use exhaust fans or dehumidifiers
- Wipe walls dry and keep rooms warm
Common Causes of Water Seepage in Walls
Water seepage can happen for many reasons:
- Leaky kitchen or bathroom pipes
- Poor quality building construction materials
- Unplastered exterior walls
- Cracks between wall tiles or near taps
- Water storage tank leakage
- Faulty plumbing systems
- Blocked roof drainage
Damp Wall Solution: How to Prevent Dampness
Here are some easy methods to solve and prevent damp problems at home:
1. Seal Wall Cracks
Moisture is introduced through cracks along the doors and windows. Seal them with wall crack filler and repaint the area. This should be done prior to the onset of the monsoon.
2. Use Waterproof Paint
Many exterior paints are porous. Apply waterproof coating to exterior walls to prevent water seepage in the wall. Also, coat your roof with waterproof layers to avoid leaks.
3. Install a Damp-Proof Course (DPC)
A DPC is a layer of waterproof material placed 15 cm above ground level in walls. It blocks rising dampness. If your home doesn’t have one, call an expert to install or fix it.
4. Guniting
Guniting is applying a thin concrete layer to walls and pipes under pressure. This seals gaps and stops water leaking from wall surfaces. It’s a long-term fix for wet walls.
5. Pressure Grouting
In this method, a mixture of cement and sand is injected into cracks under pressure. It not only seals damp walls but also strengthens the building.
6. Improve Ventilation
To make sure the air in a house is dry, windows are supposed to be opened, fans turned on, or air vents added. As well as drying your walls you will also reduce condensation with free air circulation.
Bonus Tip: Keep an Eye on Hidden Areas
Dampness often begins where we cannot see it behind cupboards or under sinks and near toilets. Be on the check on these sections and repair any sign of water seepage early.
When to Call a Professional?
If you notice:
- Large black patches
- Constant bad smell
- Wet walls for weeks
- Severe paint damage
It’s time to call an expert in damp proofing. Some solutions like DPC installation or pressure grouting need professional tools and skills.
FAQs on Damp Walls
Q1. What causes dampness in walls?
Poor building construction materials, leaking pipes, or no damp-proofing.
Q2. Can dampness be harmful?
Yes. It causes fungus, mold, and breathing issues. It can also weaken your home’s walls.
Q3. How do I prevent water leaking from walls?
Use waterproof paint, seal cracks, and fix all plumbing issues. Also, improve airflow indoors.
Q4. Is damp proofing permanent?
It depends on the method. DPC and guniting can last many years if done correctly.
Final Thoughts
Damp walls are not only an unsightly appearance but they are a sign of danger. Serious health problems and the disstructure of your home may become its consequences, as a result of water seepage and wet walls and consequential mold. However, there are some things that you can do to keep your walls and family safe: seal cracks, paint with waterproof paint and go for a decent damp-proof course.
Avoid the rainy season and things become worse. Begin to examine your walls as early as possible. In case that is necessary, contact an expert in the field of damp proofing and call a material supplier close to your location.
Save your house, save your health. Goodbye to dampness
