This one really got my attention! My "project" 1900 house had redundant air bricks left behind from the days of the wooden floor (replaced with concrete in late '60's I am informed by a neighbour.) Wherever there was an air brick, there appeared to be a damp patch above the loose and badly fitted skirtings, along with patches of blown plaster. I didn't have a damp meter at this time, but knocked one of the air bricks out. I found that the hardcore had run out from under the plastic membrane under floor, and was bridging the (small) cavity, plus I believe that the draught blowing up behind skirting was causing a cold spot (again no instruments at this point.) I decided to brick up the redundant vents, and refix the skirtings (damp course behind was also bridged.) I placed a dehumidifier in the affected rooms, and allowed brickwork to dry for a few months, before patching the plaster. This is very much in the experimental stages, but after I'll guess six months, early signs are good. So many faults on this house from years of "bodgit ans scarper" builders, but gradually getting to the bottom of things. I did consider blocking the air vents with mastic, purely as an experiment, but decided to take the bull by the horns.
Are you dealing with mysterious damp patches at the base of your walls? 🤔 If so, please make a comment, and I’ll try to help with my AI-powered buddy at damp.ai - do visit for advice.
This one really got my attention! My "project" 1900 house had redundant air bricks left behind from the days of the wooden floor (replaced with concrete in late '60's I am informed by a neighbour.) Wherever there was an air brick, there appeared to be a damp patch above the loose and badly fitted skirtings, along with patches of blown plaster. I didn't have a damp meter at this time, but knocked one of the air bricks out. I found that the hardcore had run out from under the plastic membrane under floor, and was bridging the (small) cavity, plus I believe that the draught blowing up behind skirting was causing a cold spot (again no instruments at this point.) I decided to brick up the redundant vents, and refix the skirtings (damp course behind was also bridged.) I placed a dehumidifier in the affected rooms, and allowed brickwork to dry for a few months, before patching the plaster. This is very much in the experimental stages, but after I'll guess six months, early signs are good. So many faults on this house from years of "bodgit ans scarper" builders, but gradually getting to the bottom of things. I did consider blocking the air vents with mastic, purely as an experiment, but decided to take the bull by the horns.
Are you dealing with mysterious damp patches at the base of your walls? 🤔
If so, please make a comment, and I’ll try to help with my AI-powered buddy at damp.ai - do visit for advice.