Damp Proofing

For a long time now the chemical damp proof course has been seen as the cure for all damp problems. In Hampshire, Wiltshire and Dorset, a huge number of traditional buildings were constructed using cob and stone or flint and brick. For these buildings, a chemical damp proof course is unsuitable.

We see too many properties with unsuitable and unnecessary damp proofing or even damp caused by damp proofing contractors removing traditional finishes in favour of hard cement finishes.

If you think you have an issue with damp or damp proofing, you need to instruct a qualified surveyor with experience in traditional buildings so that you can get the right advice for your project. Free surveys will always end up with a salesman trying to sell damp proofing.

MacLennan are specialist damp proofing contractors. We work closely with Architects, Engineers, Building surveyors and Building Contractors to remediate damp and decay encountered on building projects.

Our work is often part of a larger scheme where we will take on all of the design, and installation of specialist elements such as Waterproofing, Helical repairs, Timber treatment and Damp proofing.

MacLennan do domestic projects but charge for initial surveys and don’t carry out the associated building work.

We do not carry out pre purchase surveys.

As long as there is a building professional involved MacLennan will visit the property and write a comprehensive specification, the surveyor will specify work that is sympathetic to the type of property and will cure the problem.

MacLennan’s service is backed by our insured guarantees. Our surveyors are fully qualified to the highest standard and have many years of experience in all types of construction.

Lime plaster or Cavity Lathe?

Maclennan engineer applying lime plaster being applied to historic Building

Building’s fall into two categories for the purposes of surveying for damp.

Modern buildings built with a damp proof course and barriers to rainwater penetration, and old buildings built prior to mid to late 19th century depending on the region of the country. Old buildings relied on the walls breathing and shedding moisture before damp became a problem.

Learn more about lime vs cavity lathe

Common Damp Proofing Issues

Condensation / Mould

The curing of condensation using a range of methods.
Also discussed: Black Mould

Building Preservation

The use of timber treatments and sympathetic damp proofing to preserve historic buildings.
Also discussed: Woodworm

Dry Rot

The diagnosis and cure of dry rot by qualified, specialist timber surveyors.

Get in touch with our technical team today!

Do you suspect Rising Damp?

For buildings built with walls thicker than 400mm or of chalk, cob, flint or friable stone we would recommend ventilated cavity membranes.

Learn more about Cavity Drain Systems

Why should I work with MacLennan?

WE’RE INDEPENDENT

We Design, supply and install. There's no split responsibility with MacLennan.

WE’RE PASSIONATE

MacLennan live and breathe waterproofing, have a look at one of our free CPD seminars and find out!

WE’RE GUARANTEED

MacLennan has the most comprehensive guarantees and insurances in the industry.

Damp Proofing Methods

Lime Render Lime Mortar Rising Damp Cavity Membranes Silane Cream

Lime Render

We might recommend the removal of sand cement renders and replace with a lime render which will allow the walls to breathe and shed moisture. Before considering this, you should read our advice on damp and lime render.

Lime Mortar

Rising Damp

Cavity Membranes

Ventilated cavity laths allow buildings to ‘breathe’ by letting moisture vapour escape from the surface of the wall through a continuous air gap. They are a form of dry lining but as they are not made of a bio-degradable material such as wood or paper (on plasterboard), they cannot decay and will last the lifetime of the building. The inside of the property is left completely dry and warmer while the structure is breathing as it should do.

Silane Cream

Environmental Policy

MacLennan strive to source our materials from the most sustainable sources possible and participate in pioneering recycling schemes.

As a company that designs, supplies and installs waterproofing, our supply chain is shorter than most and we consciously select the best products for resilience.