Nordic Damp Proofing recently completed an internal damp-proofing project at a residential property in Frome, Somerset, restoring a section of wall affected by moisture-related deterioration.
The work involved removing the affected plaster, exposing the underlying brickwork, installing a specialist damp-proof membrane and replastering the treated area.
The project demonstrates how targeted damp proofing treatments can help protect internal finishes while restoring the appearance of an affected wall.
The Problem: Deteriorating Plaster Around an Internal Chimney Breast
The affected area was a narrow section of wall alongside a chimney breast and fireplace, positioned next to a radiator.
Damp-related deterioration can cause plaster to weaken, lose adhesion or become contaminated with moisture-related salts. These salts can continue to affect decorative finishes even after the original moisture problem has been addressed.
This is particularly relevant around fireplaces and chimney breasts, where moisture problems can have several possible causes. Our guide to why walls become damp around fireplaces explains some of the common issues homeowners encounter.
For this property in Frome, the remedial works focused on removing the affected material and introducing a protective membrane between the existing masonry and the new plaster finish.
This allowed the wall to be restored without unnecessarily disturbing the surrounding decorative surfaces.
Removing the Affected Plaster
The first stage involved stripping away the damaged plaster to expose the original brickwork beneath.
With the masonry accessible, the team could prepare the surface for the installation of the damp-proofing system.
Care was taken to protect the surrounding areas, including the radiator, fireplace, flooring and adjacent painted walls. Protective sheeting and masking were used to help minimise disruption during the works.
Removing deteriorated plaster is an important part of many internal damp treatments, particularly where the existing surface may contain hygroscopic salts within the wall.
These salts can attract moisture from the surrounding air, potentially contributing to recurring staining and damage to plaster finishes.
Installing a Damp-Proof Membrane
Following preparation, a specialist damp-proof membrane was installed across the affected section of masonry.
The membrane was mechanically secured using fixing plugs, creating a protective separation between the original brickwork and the new internal plaster.
This type of system is particularly useful where residual moisture or salt contamination within masonry could otherwise affect newly applied plaster.
By isolating the fresh plaster from the underlying wall, the membrane helps reduce the risk of moisture and salts transferring into the new decorative finish.
The installation was carefully fitted around the existing electrical cable route, with the necessary detailing incorporated into the treated section.
Nordic Damp Proofing has completed similar membrane installations across the region, including a damp-proofing and cavity membrane installation in Bath, Somerset.
Replastering and Restoring the Wall
Once the damp-proof membrane was securely installed, the team began reinstating the wall with a new plaster finish.
The photographs show the different stages of plastering, from the initial application through to the smoother finished surface.
The new plaster was applied to restore the original wall profile and provide a suitable surface for decoration once sufficiently dry.
Particular attention was given to the edges of the treated section, ensuring the replastered area blended neatly with the surrounding walls and chimney breast.
The result was a restored internal wall, with the damp-proofing system concealed beneath the new plaster.
Why Use a Damp-Proof Membrane?
Damp-proof membranes are an established method of protecting internal wall finishes in suitable damp treatment applications.
Rather than relying solely on new plaster, the membrane creates a physical barrier between the underlying masonry and the replacement surface.
This can be beneficial where walls have experienced moisture penetration or salt contamination, particularly when the original plaster has deteriorated.
However, identifying the source of moisture is equally important. Dampness can develop for several reasons, including plumbing leaks, penetrating damp, condensation or rising damp.
Our article on how to stop damp returning after treatment explains why investigating the underlying cause and choosing the appropriate remedial works are essential.
At Nordic Damp Proofing, our approach is to assess the affected area and recommend a treatment appropriate to the property and the nature of the damp problem.
Project Outcome: A Reinstated Internal Wall
The completed works provided the homeowner with a newly plastered wall section and a concealed damp-proofing membrane designed to protect the replacement finish.
By concentrating treatment on the affected area, Nordic Damp Proofing was able to restore the wall while retaining the surrounding radiator, fireplace and existing room finishes.
The project highlights the importance of thorough preparation, appropriate damp-proofing materials and careful plastering when repairing moisture-damaged internal walls.
For another example of targeted internal wall treatment, see our internal damp proofing project in Trowbridge, where our team carried out remedial works to address damp-affected areas.
Professional Damp Proofing in Frome, Somerset
Nordic Damp Proofing provides specialist damp proofing services throughout Frome, Somerset and the surrounding areas.
Whether your property has deteriorating plaster, damp patches, moisture-damaged walls or recurring problems with internal finishes, our experienced team can investigate the issue and recommend appropriate treatment.
Our services include damp surveys, rising damp treatment, penetrating damp solutions, damp-proof membrane installation and specialist plastering.
We focus on identifying the underlying cause of moisture problems and delivering suitable long-term solutions, with 25-year guarantees available on qualifying treatments.
If you’re concerned about damp in your home, contact Nordic Damp Proofing to arrange a professional damp assessment.
