Below Ground Damp Proofing & Membrane Installation – Kidsgrove, Stoke-on-Trent
Location: Kidsgrove, Stoke-on-Trent
Project Overview
This project involved specialist damp proofing works to a residential property in Kidsgrove, Stoke-on-Trent, where a section of internal wall was positioned partially below external ground level.
The client had been experiencing ongoing damp issues to this area, with previous attempts to resolve the problem proving unsuccessful. Our brief was to provide a reliable, long-term solution to eliminate recurring dampness and restore the internal space.
The Issue
The affected wall was subject to persistent dampness due to its below-ground position, allowing moisture to track through the masonry over time.
Although there was physical water ingress, the wall remained consistently damp, leading to deterioration of internal finishes and an unsuitable living environment.
The client had previously sought advice and quotations from other contractors but had not been confident in the proposed solutions, particularly following an earlier unsuccessful attempt to rectify the issue.
Our Approach
Following a detailed assessment, we specified a membrane-based damp proofing system to manage and isolate moisture effectively.
All existing plaster was removed from the affected wall area to expose the underlying masonry. Due to the presence of heavy salt contamination, a salt stabiliser was applied to control hygroscopic salts and prevent future contamination of new finishes.
A masonry sealing substrate coating was then applied to ensure a sound and consistent surface for the membrane system to be installed onto.
A high-performance membrane system was installed to the wall, carefully detailed and sealed into the solid slab floor to ensure full continuity of protection. The system was fixed using self-sealing plug fixings, maintaining the integrity of the protective barrier.
Reinstatement & Finishing
Once the membrane system was in place, the wall was dry-lined using insulated plasterboard, improving both thermal performance and internal comfort.
The area was then plaster skimmed to a smooth, high-quality finish, leaving the space ready for final decoration.
All works were completed with attention to detail, ensuring a clean and professional finish throughout.
The Result
The property in Kidsgrove, Stoke-on-Trent now benefits from a fully protected internal wall, with the recurring damp issue successfully resolved using a proven, long-term solution.
By addressing both the moisture ingress and underlying salt contamination, we were able to deliver a system that not only solves the immediate problem but also prevents future issues.
The client was left with a clean, dry and professionally finished space, along with the confidence that the problem has been properly dealt with.
