Rising Damp Treatment to Understairs Area – Harborne, Birmingham
Location: Harborne, Birmingham
Project Overview
This project involved specialist rising damp treatment to an understairs area within a residential property in Harborne, Birmingham.
The client had previously had damp-proofing work carried out by another contractor; however, the solution had proven ineffective, with dampness reoccurring and internal finishes continuing to deteriorate. Our brief was to remove the failed system and install a reliable, long-term solution.
The Issue
The understairs section was affected by rising damp, with visible signs of moisture and deterioration to the wall finishes.
A previous attempt to resolve the issue had involved the application of a surface coating; however, this had not addressed the root cause of the problem. As a result, moisture remained within the structure, leading to continued dampness and failure of the internal finish.
To properly resolve the issue, it was necessary to remove all compromised materials and implement a system designed to both stop rising moisture and manage any residual dampness.
Our Approach
All existing plaster and previously applied coatings were removed from the affected area to expose the underlying masonry.
A thixotropic damp proof course (DPC) was then installed via injection, forming a new chemical barrier to prevent further rising moisture from travelling up through the wall.
Following this, a two-part bonded membrane system was applied to isolate any remaining moisture within the structure and provide a reliable base for reinstatement.
This combination of treatments ensures both the source of the damp is addressed and the internal environment is protected moving forward.
Reinstatement & Finishing
Once the damp proofing system was in place, the area was rebuilt using plasterboard and base plaster as required to achieve the correct wall levels.
The surface was then plastered and skimmed to a smooth, high-quality finish, leaving the understairs space ready for decoration.
All works were carried out with care and attention to detail, particularly given the confined nature of the area.
The Result
The understairs area at this Harborne, Birmingham property has now been fully restored, with the rising damp issue successfully resolved using a professional, long-term solution.
By removing the previously failed treatment and installing a proven system, we have ensured the space is now dry, protected and finished to a high standard — giving the client confidence that the problem has been properly addressed.
