Damp Proofing Membranes: A Complete Guide

If you live in the United Kingdom and have noticed a shiny sheet-like material between the roofing of some houses, you must have wondered what it is. That is a damp proofing membrane!

This material is one of the best for keeping dampness out. Damp proofing is all about controlling moisture in floors and walls. It's done to keep the inside of buildings dry and comfortable.

Why Do You Need a Damp Proof Membrane?

A damp-proof membrane is important in design and build North East where the insulation materials include things like cellulose and wool. These membranes stop dampness from getting into the insulation and making it less effective.

Besides helping with insulation, damp-proof membranes also protect your building’s structures from moisture issues. For example, if you damp-proof a wooden structure, it guards against mold and rot.

These membranes are also useful if your wall or floor is getting worse and you need a quick fix. The membrane has a mesh that’s welded onto the base material.

Differences Between Damp-Proof Membrane & Course

A DPC (damp-proof course) is a barrier put in buildings to stop moisture from moving up through tiny pores. This can happen when your building draws water up from the ground.

A damp course can go across or up and down, and it’s put under all brick walls, no matter what kind they are.

A damp proofing membrane (DPM), on the other hand, is a slim layer used to handle dampness. For instance, polyethylene sheeting laid under concrete floors to stop water from being drawn up.

How Do Damp Proof Membranes Work?

These plastic sheets prevent water from entering any design and build in North East. Their bumpy top creates a little space for air, which lets water evaporate and keeps your walls clear. When correctly applied, these membranes can hold up well to intense structural movements, with an elongation break exceeding 40%.