Signs of penetrating damp
- Damp patches that get bigger or darker after heavy rain
- Patches at any height, often near windows, chimneys or below gutters
- Mould on one external wall only
- Blown plaster and bubbling paint
- Green staining or plant growth on the outside of the wall
Where the water usually gets in
| Source | Typical fix |
|---|---|
| Blocked or leaking gutters and downpipes | Clear, reseal or replace sections |
| Worn or cracked mortar pointing | Rake out and repoint, lime mortar on older brickwork |
| Cracked render | Repair or replace with breathable render |
| Failed window seals and sills | Reseal frames, repair or replace sills |
| Chimney flashing and roof defects | Repair flashing, replace slipped tiles |
How we repair it
- Trace the entry point, with photos from outside
- Fix the outside defect so the wall stops getting wet
- Remove blown plaster and let the wall dry
- Replaster with materials that suit the wall
- Treat any mould and redecorate the repaired area
Work at height that needs scaffolding or a tower is quoted separately so you see the full cost upfront.
Price
Small external repairs such as resealing a window or clearing gutters can start from £150. Repointing and plaster repairs are priced after a look at the property. No VAT added.
Questions people ask
Will water repellent cream fix penetrating damp?
It can help on porous brick in good condition, but it will not fix cracked render, failed pointing or a leaking gutter. Those defects have to be repaired first.