This project involved treating a large internal wall suffering from penetrating damp within a staircase area of a property in Trowbridge.
Due to the height of the wall and restricted access around the staircase, specialist internal scaffolding was required to safely carry out the works. Once the source of moisture was identified, a comprehensive damp treatment system was installed to prevent further moisture ingress and restore the affected wall.
Investigating the Cause of the Damp
The homeowner had noticed signs of moisture affecting a large internal wall running alongside the staircase.
Following our survey, we identified that the problem was being caused by porous masonry externally, allowing wind-driven rain to penetrate through the building fabric and affect the internal finishes.
Because of the height of the wall and the staircase layout, access was particularly challenging and required a bespoke scaffold platform to allow safe treatment from floor to ceiling.
Signs of Penetrating Damp Included:
• Damp patches appearing on internal walls
• Decorative finishes deteriorating
• Moisture tracking through masonry
• Localised staining and discolouration
• Evidence of long-term water ingress
Specialist Access & Preparation
One of the most challenging aspects of this project was gaining safe access to the full height of the affected wall.
Internal scaffolding was erected throughout the stairwell, allowing our team to work safely while protecting the staircase and surrounding finishes.
It’s certainly not a damp proofing project you see every day.
The existing affected finishes were removed and the wall prepared ready for treatment.
Stormdry Masonry Cream Application
After identifying the porous masonry as the source of the moisture ingress, we applied a Stormdry masonry cream treatment.
Stormdry is widely regarded as one of the most effective masonry protection creams available and works by penetrating deep into the masonry to create a water-repellent barrier while allowing the wall to remain breathable.
Benefits include:
• Reduces water penetration through masonry
• Maintains breathability of the wall
• Long-lasting protection against driving rain
• Suitable for older and modern properties
• Helps prevent future penetrating damp issues
This treatment is particularly effective on exposed elevations that experience significant rainfall and wind-driven moisture.
Internal Mesh Membrane System Installation
Following the external masonry treatment, an internal mesh membrane system was installed to isolate the affected wall and provide a suitable surface for replastering.
The membrane system helps manage residual moisture while creating a durable substrate for new finishes.
Works included:
• Installation of specialist damp-proof membrane system
• Mechanical fixing to the wall structure
• Preparation for replastering
• Full reinstatement of internal finishes
The Completed Result
Once the damp treatment system was installed, the wall was replastered and restored, providing a clean finish ready for decoration.
The property owner now benefits from:
• Protection against future penetrating damp
• Improved internal appearance
• Reduced moisture ingress through masonry
• Long-term damp management solution
• Peace of mind that the source of the issue has been addressed
Why Penetrating Damp Shouldn’t Be Ignored
Penetrating damp often starts as a small patch of moisture but can lead to significant internal damage if left untreated.
Common causes include:
• Porous brickwork or blockwork
• Defective render or pointing
• Failed sealants around openings
• Cracked masonry
• Exposed elevations subject to driving rain
Early intervention can prevent costly repairs and further deterioration of internal finishes.
