Homeowners are being urged to take damp seriously, as a property care expert reveals his five top tips to protect properties and avoid potential devaluation.
George Edwards, Managing Director of Timberwise, a national property care firm based in Northwich, explains that dampness is not solely an indoor issue and can extend to external boundaries, posing hidden risks to property value.
“The value of your home can be affected if damp is found in fences and walls within gardens, drives, or yards attached to, or near to, a property,” Mr Edwards explained.
“These boundaries still belong to the property owner, and they are responsible for the state they are kept in. They must also ensure they are not interfering with, or causing nuisance to, their neighbours. Garden walls and fences also need some TLC when it comes to dampness. Whilst they are designed to withstand the weather, they will not be immune to the effects of moisture forever. Moisture can seep in through the smallest of cracks and this deterioration can cause aesthetic issues, structural problems, or even safety concerns.”
Mr Edwards highlighted three leading areas of concern for homeowners:
- Brick garden walls – damp can occur via capillary action from moisture in the ground (rising or penetrating damp). This is often due to poor drainage, damage, or cracks developing in the wall.
- Concrete fencing – typically consisting of a concrete base with wooden panels between posts. Moisture can travel up the concrete into the panels, leading to damp and deterioration.
- Wooden fence panels – moisture trapped between panels can result in “wet rot”. Over time, this can lead to mould, cracks, or splitting.
Signs of damp include mould, moss or algae growth, often green, black or fuzzy in appearance and typically found in shaded areas of walls and fences.
Mr Edwards’ top tips for avoiding damp damage:
- Carry out regular maintenance so you can spot and address issues early.
- Install a damp-proof membrane beneath a garden wall or fence before construction.
- Inject a damp-proof course into a wall or concrete fence to stop damp from rising.
- Treat existing damp, mould or rot at the source quickly with appropriate waterproofing treatments.
- Improve drainage around your property if necessary to prevent future issues.
As one of the UK’s leading property care specialists, Timberwise has been helping homeowners tackle damp, wood rot and structural issues for more than 50 years. Their nationwide team of experts provide trusted advice and long-term solutions that protect both homes and their value.
For more information and free advice, visit www.timberwise.co.uk.
