What is Sub Floor Dampness?
Sub floor dampness is a condition that occurs when there is moisture present in the sub floor of a building. This can cause a number of problems, including damage to the structure of the building, mold growth, and respiratory problems for occupants.
How Does Sub Floor Dampness Happen?
There are a number of ways that sub floor dampness can occur. Some of the most common causes include:
– Leaking pipes or fixtures
– Damaged roofing or guttering systems
– Improperly sealed windows or doors
– Poor ventilation
How Can I Tell if My Building Has Sub Floor Dampness?
If you suspect that your building has sub floor dampness, there are a few things you can do to test for it. Some of the most common methods include:
– Moisture meter readings: A moisture meter can be used to measure the level of moisture in the air or on surfaces. This can help you to determine whether there is an issue with sub floor dampness.
– Checking for condensation: Condensation on windows and other surfaces can be an indicator of sub floor dampness.
– Investigating water damage: If you have experienced water damage in your building, it is likely that you have also experienced issues with sub floor dampness.
Building Inspections will generally uncover issues with your sub floor which may be caused by contour of the land sloping towards the building instead of away ,broken storm water pipes or no plumbing installed below ground, always recommend a CCTV survey scan be conducted by a registered plumber as this will show all sub floor plumbing defects.
Check with local authorities if the building is situated in a flood prone area before signing the contract.
Building dampness to your brickwork foundations is an indication that the damp proof course has been compromised or completely missing causing rising dampness through the property, the absence of any vents to the sub floor will cause the soil to become wet over time which will affect the structural timbers within the property and extreme wetness to the soil
Ventilation to the sub floor by mechanical means is recommended in the absence of any vents
Timber stumps and or concrete stumps can become defective over time if the soil is wet for an extended period resulting in the soil changing structure causing settlement to the building with re levelling of timber flooring required
The dampness to sub floor will cause mould to grow making it extremely hard to remove with spores moving upwards towards the flooring ,then becoming a health hazard.
Dampness is to be avoided at all costs, contact us for free assessment