Damp diagnosis case studies

Introduction

The case studies that make up this section are examples of a holistic approach to surveying. Symptoms are looked at in relation to the whole of the building, of the site, and of what can be gleaned about the locality.

Preliminary research is an essential part of the approach, together with learning as much as possible by talking to the occupant, owner or client (and even local trades people, if necessary). These strategies are highlighted in the case studies.

Where possible, both sides of the building element are inspected. This is a practice that, in general, is not given enough priority in many texts. Surface moisture meter readings are used to focus attention on problematic areas –not as the sole means of analysis.

The case studies are an opportunity to present additional information about the tools and techniques already discussed. The table below assists you should you wish to refer to any particular technique or stage of a survey.

Tools and techniques used in the case studies

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Resistance meter x x x x x x x x x x
Capacitance meter x x





x

Recording grid of moisture meter readings x x x x x x x



Sketching dampness patterns

x
x x x x x x
Deep probes
x x
x x x



Salts tests

x x x x x x x

Electronic thermo-hygrometer

x x x x x x x x
Mechanical hygrometer








x
Listening stick





x



Carbide meter

x
x x x
x x
Borescope





x
x x
Data logger







x

Communicating with occupants



x
x x x
x
Stage 1 x x x x x x x x x x x
Stage 2 x x x x x x x x x x
Stage 3
x x x
x

x x
Stage 4

x




x x
Monitoring x


x x x
x

Key and list of case studies

  1. Invisible damp
  2. 'Damp metallicus' - foiled again
  3. Falling damp?
  4. All above board
  5. Cornered by damp
  6. The 334-day wall watch
  7. Buried hearth, buried pipes, buried truth
  8. The weeping stones of Lough Neagh
  9. Gone with the wind
  10. Gone to ground
  11. The French connection