Damp proofing is a method used to prevent the build-up of water or moisture in the house. It is usually considered as a type of waterproofing method. If the foundation of the building is not damp proofed, the building might collapse. A damp proof course is designed to protect the wall and it is laid horizontally on the wall. It acts like a barrier for moisture not to destroy the wall. The foundation is the most important thing when building to avoid the effects of moisture and wetness.

If the building foundation is not adequately protected, the wall might get damaged and crack over time. Most buildings that are not damp proofed are at risk of collapsing when the walls start to crack. During rainy seasons, foundations that are not damp proofed start to loosen and become weak.

Damp proofing course is a plastic sheet that is laid at the bottom of the building between the two layers where the foundation meets the wall of the building. The thick plastic sheet is used to prevent water from entering the inner wall. Without that damp proofing course, the building will be vulnerable. Stones and coarse sand are also used when damp proofing the house. There are many other methods equally effective in damp proofing.

Damp proofing may not seem or look like something important. If done right, damp proofing need only be done once, during the construction of the house. If you fail to damp proof the building, there won’t be another chance to do it without interfering with the solid structure of the building. People that are looking to buy new houses must discuss damp proofing as well as waterproofing with the estate agent. Those that are building their dream homes form scratch must also discuss this with the construction company.

All areas that experience moisture and rain need to be protected. There are many other materials that can be used for damp proofing. You need to find the right material and damp proofing course has been the cheapest and most effective for many years.