Penetrating damp stone walls

[trish]

Hi, I have an old stone cottage which is suffering from penetrating damp on all external walls. I have had conflicting advice from different damp companies so not sure where to begin to get the problem sorted. Any advice from anyone who has experienced the same would be really appreciated.

Many thanks, Trish

[SPUD1701]

Hi

If external finish all stone work, I would suggest that you check the condition of the pointing, condition of stone and make sure gutters, downpipes etc if leaking are repaired.

Penetrating damp is water that is getting in from outside, need to check condition externally and fix.

What condition of walls internally, where do you see the wet marks - this should give some idea where water getting in.

If marks not wet, but black sooty substance then not penetrating damp but more likely to be condensation.

[trish]

Many thanks for this!

No visible sign of leaks but will check out again.

Trish

[leedsash]

trish;

old stone property which won't have any damp proof course. as above check for leaking downpipes/areas the pointing may need attention as this could be allowing water to ingress in.

How long have you been at the property and how long have you noticed the damp problems? Have you had any work done in the affected room(s) lately and what are the walls coverings?

Old properties with no D.P.C need lime plaster which is porous and allows the walls to 'breathe' - providing they are not covered with walls coverings that are themselves not porous, e.g vinyl paper or silk/P.V.A containing paints.