A damp proof course (DPC) protects a building from moisture rising from the ground. Moisture damages the structural safety of the building. It is always good to know the causes and effects of leakage to take adequate steps to prevent them. This blog will discuss the ideal materials for effective damp proofing at length.
Jacob Engineers is one of the reputed structural design companies in Chennai that perform structural audits and conduct extensive assessments to safeguard your structure from moisture. We use the latest damp-proofing methods to ensure the structural integrity of the building.
Qualities of an excellent damp proofing material
Here are some requirements to get the outstanding materials for damp-proofing:
- Low permeability – The material should not let moisture through its surface.
- Elasticity – The material must be able to contract and expand because of weather fluctuations.
- Resistance – Since the surface is constantly under pressure, the damp proofing material should have good resistance to cracks and abrasions.
- Adhesion – The material must strongly bond with the substrate
- Breathable – It should allow vapor to pass through without any difficult
Materials used for damp proofing
Generally, damp proofing materials can be divided into 4 categories:
- Flexible
- Semi-rigid
- Rigid materials
- Grout
Our engineering consultants in Chennai assist the architects and other stakeholders in establishing structurally strong buildings. We follow strict quality standards to ensure our clients source the ideal materials for the damp proofing. Here are some of the commonly used materials for damp proofing.
1 – Hot bitumen
This is a malleable substance that is applied to concrete or mortar beds. Hot bitumen must have a minimum thickness of 3 mm on the surface.
2 – Mastic Asphalt
It is a semi-rigid substance that produces an effective damp-proofing impermeable layer. Asphalt is a long-lasting, totally impenetrable material. However, it can only endure minor stress. This material evaporates in scorching climates or under extreme pressure.
3 – Bituminous Felt
Bituminous Felt is layered on top of cement mortar. A complete overlap is provided in the corners, while a 10 cm overlap is given at the joints. This material can tolerate minute pressure but can collapse under heavy strain.
4 – Bricks
Bricks that absorb water less than 4.5% of their weight are suitable for damp proofing. They are placed in places where the dampness is low. The joints are not closed. Bricks are used to insert a damp proofing course in an existing wall.
5 – Mortar
Mortar is made by blending cement and sand in the ratio 1:3. The water-proof mortar can be prepared for plastering operations. It is made by combining one part cement with two parts sand and pulverized alum at 12 kg/cum of sand.
6 – Stones
Two courses of thick stones such as slates, granites, and other similar rocks set in cement mortar with vertical breaking joints can be used as a practical damp proofing course. The stones should span the entire length of the wall. Stones can be fixed in some cases, such as on roof surfaces, exposed wall faces, etc.
Damp-proofing is essential for long-term moisture decay prevention. Jacob Engineers is one of the top structural engineering companies in Chennai because of its technical prowess over structural design, review, and effective implementation. Jacob Engineers conduct professional training on Structural design Engineering to construct structurally sound buildings.
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