Nordic Damp Proofing has recently completed a specialist penetrating damp treatment at Beach House, Tadwick Lane, Bath, following a comprehensive damp survey that identified moisture ingress affecting the property’s front roadside elevation.
Due to the property’s age and its position approximately one metre below the external ground level, moisture had been tracking laterally through the masonry, bringing hygroscopic salts into the internal wall finishes. Our recommended solution was a full membrane isolation system to permanently separate the affected masonry from the internal finishes while allowing the homeowners to complete their planned timber panelling.
Initial Damp Survey Findings
During our inspection, we identified a clear moisture line consistent with the raised external ground level. The absence of effective damp proofing on this elevation had allowed ground moisture to penetrate through the wall over many years.
As moisture moves through masonry, it carries naturally occurring salts. Even after the wall begins drying, these salts continue attracting moisture from the air, causing recurring damp patches and damage to decorations if they are not properly isolated.
Our survey also identified:
- Penetrating damp affecting the front roadside elevation
- Hygroscopic salt contamination within the original plaster
- Moisture ingress around the exposed brickwork near the entrance
- Signs of historic moisture within the basement, which will continue to be monitored
- External defects contributing to penetrating damp elsewhere on the property
Removing Contaminated Plaster
To ensure all salt-contaminated materials were removed, we carefully stripped the affected plaster back to approximately 1.5 metres high across the treatment area.
Removing contaminated plaster is an essential stage of damp proofing, as salts embedded within old plaster can continue causing damp symptoms long after the original moisture source has been addressed.
Once exposed, the masonry was prepared for treatment.
Salt Neutralisation & Membrane Installation
After exposing the original masonry, we applied a specialist salt neutralising solution to reduce the effects of hygroscopic contamination before installing our cavity drainage membrane system.
The membrane was mechanically fixed directly to the masonry, creating a permanent separation between the damp wall and future internal finishes.
This system:
- Prevents residual salts reaching decorative finishes
- Allows the wall behind to breathe naturally
- Creates a dry surface ready for replastering
- Provides long-term protection against future moisture transfer
The treated section was finished with a clean trim detail at 1.5 metres, allowing the homeowner to install timber panelling over the lower section while maintaining the character of the property.
Professional Replastering
Following installation of the membrane system, the treated walls were professionally replastered to provide a smooth finish ready for decorating.
The completed system now isolates the internal finishes from both moisture and salt contamination, providing a long-lasting solution rather than simply masking the symptoms.
As agreed with the homeowner, skirting boards were left off ready for their own finishing works.
Additional Defects Identified During the Survey
Our assessment also identified two separate areas of penetrating damp that require external remedial works.
Defective Lead Roof Coverings
The lead roof coverings around the coping details showed signs of deterioration, allowing driving wind and rain to penetrate the structure.
Given the exposed location of the property, we recommended that these sections are inspected and renewed by a specialist roofing contractor.
Blocked Gutters Causing Bedroom Damp
In the upstairs corner bedroom, damp was found around the window reveal.
External inspection identified blocked gutters and gullies serving both the main roof and adjoining flat roof. Moss and vegetation growth had prevented water from draining correctly, saturating the surrounding brickwork.
We recommended:
- Immediate gutter clearance
- Flat roof cleaning
- Monitoring over a 4–8 week drying period
- Further membrane treatment only if moisture or salts remain active
By identifying these defects during the survey, the homeowner can address the root cause before further internal damage occurs.
Protected with a 20-Year Guarantee
The completed treatment at Beach House is fully covered by our 20-year guarantee for the treated areas.
As part of our commitment to long-term quality, every installation also includes a dedicated six-month follow-up inspection. This visit is an important part of our service, allowing us to confirm that the treated walls have stabilised correctly and continue performing exactly as intended.
This ongoing support gives homeowners complete confidence that their investment is protected for years to come.
Why Choose Nordic Damp Proofing?
At Nordic Damp Proofing, we focus on diagnosing the true cause of damp before recommending the correct solution.
Rather than simply replastering over affected areas, we treat the source of the problem and install specialist systems designed to provide permanent protection.
Every survey is carried out thoroughly, every recommendation is explained clearly, and every installation is completed using industry-leading products backed by long-term guarantees.
