Why Bridging Plaster Is Often Mistaken for Rising Damp in Nottingham Homes.
Bridging plaster is one of the most common issues we encounter across Nottingham, and it’s frequently misdiagnosed as rising damp. The images from today's inspection clearly show the effects of plaster that has been taken down too far- bridging over the existing damp proof course and allowing moisture to transfer directly into the wall.
When plaster touches the floor level, it acts like a wick, pulling up ground moisture and causing damp staining at the bottom of the wall. Over time, hygroscopic salts migrate into the plaster. These salts absorb moisture from the air, meaning the wall can continue to appear damp even long after the masonry has dried. This also creates cold surfaces where condensation forms easily, leading to mould growth at low level.
Fortunately, the solution is straightforward once correctly identified. The plaster needs to be removed above the damp proof course, and any salt-contaminated material replaced with the appropriate specification. Keeping internal finishes clear of the DPC prevents moisture from bridging in the future.
At Timberwise Nottingham, accurate diagnosis is essential to the service we provide. Identifying issues like bridging plaster early prevents unnecessary treatments and ensures the right remedy is applied from the start. If you are seeing low-level damp, flaking paint, or mould in your home, our local specialists are here to help.
