dpc for concrete block workshop walls?

[Udhi]

Hi all,
I have two people building a workshop for me. They have dug in a foundation and built the walls to a single skin height of about 6 feet. I noticed there is no membrane between the blocks as it rises from its underground level upwards (Damp Proof Course?).

I asked them about it and they say the concrete block walls do not need one and have carried on. I am going to have tools and a mig welder in there and would like to be sure this is sound practice? I do know they have a membrane to install under the concrete slab.

If its not, how do I cope with damp problems? Pulling it down and restarting is not an option now.

As always, any knowledge appreciated.

 

[dann09]

Typically, slab construction has a membrane below the slab and a DPC in the walls.
Sometimes the membrane is taken up and serves as a DPC and membrane.

There are plentiful diagrams of slab construction on the web.

 

[tony1851]

All masonry walls should have a damp-proof course incorporated at the base, usually around 6" above ground level.
These guys have not bothered to buy a roll and are fobbing you off.

 

[cliff1010]

Can you not get them to inject a chemical DPC, I have not done it myself as yet but need to do this on a building we are converting and it seems the best option.

Cliff

 

[Udhi]

Hi all,
Thank you for the replies.

There definitely is no DPC in the wall build. They do have a huge roll of CPC waiting to go under the slab,, it has been here before the foundations were dug so I can't think of it being a fob off due to lack of materials.

I am definitely going to look at the cream based DPC, thank you. Also stumbled on an article about using a cementicious waterproofing compound which is trowelled or painted on the walls. I heard bad stuff about single skin concrete walls letting damp through from the rain, this stuff might help against it......but how the hell does the wall dry out if I stopped it breathing on one side?!?

 

[tony1851]

You're trying to make the best of a bad job. The solution is that a masonry wall should have a dpc built into it about 150 above ground level.
Any other 'remedy' is a botch.

 

[Udhi]

Absolutely. I noticed it too late and getting them to rip it down and start again is not going to happen.

I wouldnt have even noticed if it hadnt been for the knowledge I had gained in this forum in the last 6+ years.