DAMP PROBLEMS IN COASTAL PROPERTIES
WHY ARE COASTAL PROPERTIES AT GREATER RISK TO DAMP?
Are coastal properties in Scotland at greater risk of damp than their inland counterparts? The short answer to this question is yes. The increased exposure to rain on the coast can lead to several property problems such as damp and rot so it’s important that coastal property owners in Scotland take the necessary precautions as we come into the rainy autumn and winter months.
The main reason for the increased risk of damp to coastal properties is wind driven rain.
Properties that face the sea are likely to be battered with increased wind driven rain when compared to inland properties. This is simply due to coastal properties having less to protect them from wind coming in from the sea. Wind in coastal areas can also cause salty sea water to hit properties and water with a high salt content will erode a building’s weather protection at a faster rate, ultimately this can exacerbate problems caused by cracks and loose render which will lead to moisture penetrating the property.
PENETRATING DAMP IN COASTAL PROPERTIES
Penetrating damp occurs when moisture successfully penetrates from the outside of a building to the inside of your property, usually through cracks or gaps in masonry or brickwork.
Penetrating damp is prevalent in coastal areas that experience more humid or wet weather than inland areas. This is why it is important for coastal homeowners to take every precaution to ensure their homes are not affected by penetrating damp. In addition to rain, coastal areas are more likely to experience other forms of moisture such as fog and mist which only adds to the excess moisture coastal properties are exposed to.
With Scottish coastal areas likely to see an increase in adverse weather conditions in the winter months, it is important homeowners do not waste any time in ensuring their homes are sufficiently damp proofed.
HOW CAN I PROTECT MY COASTAL PROPERTY FROM DAMP?
DAMP PROOFING
It is important for anyone living in a coastal area to prepare for the worst. We strongly urge you to ensure your property is sufficiently damp proofed in preparation for the rainy months. If you are unsure then don’t hesitate to contact a damp specialist who can offer expert advice on how to prevent damp.
CHECK YOUR ROOF
Any leaks or gaps in a roof can lead to penetrating damp so it is important to regularly check your roof to ensure there is no risk of water ingress.
CLEAN OUT PIPES AND GUTTERS
If not maintained, gutters and pipes can quickly clog up with debris, allowing water to build up and potentially penetrate the property. If water freezes inside a pipe, it will expand as it freezes which can cause cause cracks in pipe, leaving the property at high risk of penetrating damp. This is why it is crucial to everything possible to help prevent burst or frozen water pipes
I THINK I HAVE PENETRATING DAMP
Any damp problem in a property must be treated immediately or you run the risk of the problem aggravating and thereby becoming more expensive to treat in the long run. If you notice any signs of penetrating damp in your property or are unsure if you’re home is sufficiently damp proofed, then don’t hesitate to call Wise Property Care today or click the button below to fill out our brief contact form and one our damp specialists will be in touch to help answer your queries.
