What is Damp Proofing?

Last year I did damp proofing for my house by applying a damp proof paint- Asian Paints SmartCare Damp Proof. So I can give you an idea about what is dampproofing. Damp Proofing is a treatment done when a house is under construction so that the probability of moisture entering the house has considerably lessened. The way damp proofing works is through using several chemicals so that moisture does not enter into the main part of your house from outside or has greatly reduced.

What is the Meaning of Damp Proof?

Damp proofing helps to maintain the house structure and give it more lasting life. A number of chemicals and methods are used to do the damp proofing process.

Here are some causes of Dampness:

1. Ground Moisture- If there is any groundwater seepage from the buildings foundation and it comes back up moisture would be present in walls and floors.

2. Waterproofing not done properly - If the waterproofing was not given enough attention at the time of construction, then dampness can arise from roofs and walls which would make the building more damp.

3. Improper Drainage Systems-  If the drainage system is improper  A good amount of water would be present in the building. The water would seep and cause further dampness.

These are some causes of dampness. Damp proof paints can be used to combat dampness. As I already said that I used Asian Paints SmartCare Damp Proof, apart from this there are several other damp proof paints which can be used for dampproofing. I hope you have now learnt the damp proof paint meaning.

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Recently, I came across mildew and rot growing on the walls of my home. As I wasn’t aware of what to do I called my uncle and told him about the situation. I also asked him where should I get waterproofing. He told me that what I need is damp proofing not waterproofing. I then asked him about the damp proof meaning. Here’s what he told me.

What is Damp Proofing?

According to my uncle, damp proofing is the process that helps prevent mold growth that could lead to structural damage. He also told me that waterproofing and damp proofing might sound similar but they are different things. Following this, he explained the difference and you can check the answer provided by Amit to know that. 

After that uncle told me about what is damp proof course. He said that a damp proof has multiple properties that makes it last longer and those are

• It should be flexible enough to cover most surfaces without any breakage.

• The course can be attached to any surface securely and easily. 

• It must be strong enough to withstand large amounts of moisture and loads.

• The course should also be free from any salts such as sulfates, nitrates, and chlorides.

• It might be dimensionally stable as well. 

And that’s all he told me about the damp proof meaning. I hope this helps. 

You may confuse yourself with waterproofing and damp proofing. Although the two words are used interchangeably, both have different meanings. I will share with you what is damp proofing so that you can clear your doubt. 

What is damp proofing in building construction?

Waterproofing means protecting the building from liquid water such as rain. Damp proofing means protecting a building from soil moisture. Due to the level of the building, soil conditions, and rainfall, dampness can damage and weaken the wall. Therefore, every house needs damp proofing on the walls. 

Damp proofing is done by applying a layer of coat to the wall. Damp proofing prevents the wall from getting wet when water and soil seep into the foundation. Damp proofing can also be used while making concrete for the construction of the house. 

There are certain conditions that need to be followed while applying damp proofing. You need to seal all the penetrations before applying damp proofing. For damp proofing, the walls must be clean and dry. The texture of the wall should also be smooth and even. The temperature should also be correct depending on the materials used for damp proofing. 

Some of the Best Damp Proof methods are:

• Liquid Wrap and Joint Filler

• Using Flashing Materials

• Damp Proofing Rods

• Damp Proofing Sheets

I hope you understand what is damp proofing in building construction now. 

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