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Written by Warren Muschialli

The answer is most certainly yes!

Applying a damp proof membrane to walls can be an excellent solution for damp problems inside the home but we first must diagnose what is the cause of the damp issue.

Damp causes many problems in our properties but there are usually three main causes of damp: rising damp, penetrating damp, and condensation.

Identification of the type of damp is key. Once you are sure of the cause of the damp, there are often simple measures that might help the problem. It is worth spending the time looking over your property thoroughly to try and identify the causes as it may be something you can fix quickly.

Depending on the cause of the dampness, remedial measures may be required to remove the damp and prevent further occurrence, ensuring that your property is kept warm and dry.

Detail of Newton 805 Newlath damp proof membrane

What is Damp Proof Membrane?

Newton Damp Proof Membranes are provided in the form of a plastic sheet made from High Density Polyethylene (HDPE). HDPE is impervious to moisture and salts and can be fixed to internal walls.

The surface of the membrane has a studded profile, and the studs face the wall to create an air gap that allows for vapor equalization to take place between the membrane and walls.

How is Damp Proof Membrane Installed?

Newton’s range of Damp Proof membranes are a sympathetic approach to dealing with an age-old problem and can be installed on internal walls, on top of existing slabs/floors or below new concrete floors.

The membranes are ideal as they are easy and quick to install, and the wall/floor does not require extensive and damaging substrate preparation.

Damp proof membranes are flexible and can be cut to size with a sharp utility knife, scissors, or shears, on-site for ease of installation.

When fitting damp proof membranes on walls you should follow these steps as guidance:

Application of Newton damp proof membrane with plugs

1. Once the source of the damp problem has been identified, make sound any structural defects and remove any internal finishes so the wall is back to the original substrate.

2. Cut the damp proof membrane to fit the size of the wall section being treated.

3. Carefully fix the damp proof membrane to the wall with the studs facing the wall and flat surface face inwards towards the applicator. Fix the membrane to the walls with the suitable fixing plug.

4. Fix the wall membrane to approximately 1.2 meters high, or higher where instances of penetrating damp are present.

5. Once the damp proof membrane is fixed, secured, and taped, then the membrane can be plastered, or a suitable internal finish placed in front of the membrane.

In many instances, a damp proof membrane can be fitted by an experienced DIYer. For larger projects in commercial applications or heritage buildings, it is advisable to use a Newton Specialist Damp Proofing Contractor.

Benefits of Using a Damp Proof Membrane

Damp proof membranes are an extremely effective way to protect a building’s interior from water penetration whilst remaining sympathetic to the structure. When you install a damp proof membrane, you protect against:

Newton Damp Proof Membranes

  • Mould growth
  • Damp patches
  • Salt contamination
  • Fragmenting plaster
  • Discoloration
  • Blistering paint
  • Peeling wallpaper
  • Fungal decay
  • Deterioration of internal décor
  • Heat loss due to poor thermal performance

Damp proof membranes will also protect the rest of your home from developing damp related problems. They will be shown on property surveys and will make up part of a surveyor’s report which will be useful when selling a property.

Damp Proof Membranes from Newton Waterproofing

Newton damp proof membrane

At Newton Waterproofing, we supply a range of damp proof membranes. Our damp proof membranes can be ordered online and installed at your home as part of a home improvement project.

We also have a network of Newton Specialist Damp Proofing Installers who can carry out a survey at your property and provide professional advice on the best products for your situation.

Newton damp proof membranes are effective and long lasting. They will protect your property from damp problems and are suitable for a wide range of applications. Newton damp proof membranes include:

Newton 802-DPMA 100% recycled plastic membrane for use underneath concrete floors. Extremely resistant to water penetration, it is quick and easy to join and is compatible with all common building materials.

Newton 803 – Non-meshed damp proofing membrane

BBA certified above ground level waterproof membrane. Light, clean, and easy to handle, it is typically installed where the wall finish is timber battens, a dry-lining frame or block wall.

Newton 803 Newtonite – 3mm meshed damp proof membrane

BBA certified high density polyethylene membrane. The meshed surface creates a mechanical key which can be easily plastered post-installation.

 

All Newton Waterproofing products are of the highest possible quality and can be used in conjunction with each other to create a comprehensive waterproofing and drainage system for any property.

Have a browse of some of our recent case studies to get an idea of the scope of our products and read our dedicated product pages for more detailed information on the Newton Waterproofing range. Alternatively, you can speak to a member of our Technical team by using using the form below, or emailing tech@newtonwaterproofing.co.uk.

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Our staff are able to provide guidance for projects of all sizes, whether you require some general advice about damp or waterproofing, or support with technical drawings and specifications.


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