Frequently Asked Questions
Damp Proofing in Coleraine: Your Questions Answered
How do I know if I have rising damp or condensation?
Rising damp usually shows as a tide mark low on internal walls, often with crumbling plaster and a musty smell, while condensation dampness appears higher up, around windows and cold corners, with visible mould. A proper survey is the only reliable way to tell them apart, since the treatment for each is different.
My Victorian terrace near The Diamond has damp patches, is this common?
Yes, it's one of the most common calls we get in Coleraine. Many of these solid wall properties never had an effective damp proof course installed, or ground levels outside have risen over the decades and bridged it.
Does living near the River Bann make damp worse?
Proximity to the river can raise local ground moisture and humidity, which adds pressure on top of any existing weaknesses in a property's damp proofing. It doesn't cause damp on its own, but it can make an already marginal damp proof course fail sooner.
Can you treat damp in a stone or solid brick wall?
Yes, solid wall construction is common across Coleraine's older streets and we treat it regularly, using methods suited to how these walls actually hold and move moisture rather than a generic cavity wall approach.
What does a damp proofing treatment actually involve?
Depending on the diagnosis, it can include injecting a chemical damp proof course, replacing affected plaster with a suitable renovating system, and improving ventilation or drainage around the property. We'll set out exactly what's needed in your written report before any work starts.
Is damp proofing covered by a guarantee?
Yes, specialist damp proofing treatments carried out by North Coast Damp Proofing Limited come with a 10 year guarantee, terms and conditions apply, giving you cover well beyond the initial work.
I'm a landlord with a student let near the university, can you help with condensation complaints?
Yes, condensation and mould complaints are common in HMOs and student accommodation around the Coleraine campus, usually linked to occupancy levels and drying habits as much as the building itself. We'll survey the property and give you a report and treatment plan you can act on.
How long does a typical damp proofing job take in Coleraine?
Most domestic jobs take a few days on site, though this depends on the extent of the damp and how much replastering is needed afterwards. We'll give you a realistic timeframe once the survey is complete.
Will damp proofing disrupt my household or tenants?
There's some disruption, since walls need to be exposed and treated and plaster left to dry, but we plan the work to keep it as manageable as possible and talk you through what to expect before we start.
Do coastal properties near Coleraine need different damp proofing?
Properties closer to the coast, including holiday homes, often face more penetrating damp from wind driven rain, so we pay close attention to external wall condition and pointing as well as the internal damp proof course when treating these.