damp proof test

[svouts]

Hello,
I am refurbishing a ground floor flat. There are signs of damp. I have received two reports from specialist companies and they are both indicating different walls with damp.

I have also hired myself a damp proof meter. Do I need to push the two sensors deep in the plaster? The deeper I push the higher the damp indication.

 

[^woody^]

You are wasting your time with a damp meter as (i) they are not designed for plaster and (ii) you don't know how to interpret any readings it gives - ie a high reading does not equate to a damp problem.

Get your two "surveyors" to explain their findings, but if these two were from damp treatment companies, then there reports are probably suspect in any case

 

[Static]

If the flat has been empty for a period of time and the heating off.. especially over the winter your going to get damp walls.. make sure you ventilate the place for a month or so before you start prodding things with a damp meter (which as said above isnt much cop unless you get a really expensive one and know natural moisture contents of materials)..

Specially companies often have a bad reputation for finding damp where none really exists.. take their findings with a pinch of salt..

 

[oggy1511]

Hi if damp companies tell you they got damp just to get work out of you. Who are you meant to come give you a proper damp report then someone who will tell you the truth?
Can someone help me please
Oggy

 

[^woody^]

Who are you meant to come give you a proper damp report

A building surveyor, or someone who is dependant to a company that does the treatment work

 

[Static]

Who are you meant to come give you a proper damp report

A building surveyor, or someone who is independant to a company that does the treatment work

Corrected..
A building surveyor would be my choice.. they can advice who to go with for remedials as well

 

[^woody^]

LOL yeah thanks