Rising damp, condensation damp, and infiltrative damp: how to recognize them and solve building deterioration problems.

Moisture-related pathologies are a major cause of deterioration in buildings. To ensure effective and lasting interventions, it is essential to correctly identify the nature of the moisture: capillary rise, condensation or infiltration? Misdiagnosis can lead to inadequate solutions, resulting in exacerbation of the problem and increased restoration costs.

In a recent case, we were called to intervene on a building with obvious signs of dampness along the perimeter walls. The client suspected capillary rise, but a thorough investigation revealed a completely different cause: the moisture was condensation in origin, amplified by poor thermal management and critical points in the exterior sealing.

This case emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between different types of moisture.

Capillary Rising Moisture

Causes: Rising damp occurs when water in the ground is absorbed by porous materials (brick, mortar or stone) in masonry due to capillary phenomenon. This often occurs in buildings without adequate impermeable barriers.

Symptoms: Moist spots that start at the bottom and extend upward, often with a sharp edge. Presence of salt efflorescence, which forms when water evaporates and leaves crystallized salts. Degradation of plaster and paint, with detachment of surface layers.

2. Condensate Moisture

Causes: It occurs when water vapor in the air condenses on cold surfaces. This phenomenon is often caused by poor room ventilation, inadequate thermal insulation, and marked temperature differences between indoors and outdoors.

Symptoms: Diffuse water droplets or stains, especially on cold walls, ceilings and windows, and the presence of mold, often in corners or behind furniture. Irregular stain contours, unlike rising damp.

3. Infiltrative Moisture

Causes: Infiltrative dampness is due to direct penetration of water through cracks, unsealed joints, or into exterior coatings. This type is often exacerbated by heavy rains or bad weather.

Symptoms: Localized damp spots, often visible at cracks or critical points such as windows, doors and eaves. Detachment of plasters in specific areas, the formation of mold or vegetation due to the permanence of moisture.

Solutions:

In the present case, our approach involved two steps:

Exterior sealing of critical points (joints, cracks, with CIDAC elastomeric shape memory mastic sealant) to eliminate water ingress and improve building protection. Application of theinsulating dehumidifying coating Dwallinternally, thanks to which it was possible:

• Create a breathable barrier that promotes the elimination of residual moisture.

• Thermally insulate the environment, preventing future condensation.

• Improving living comfort by stabilizing indoor temperatures.

Conclusion: The Importance of Accurate Diagnosis.

Our experience shows how crucial it is to correctly identify the type of moisture before intervening. Accurate diagnosis, based on modern tools (such as thermography and hygrometry), allows us to apply targeted solutions, avoiding unnecessary or harmful interventions.

The adoption of innovative technologies, such as the Dwall cycle, makes it possible not only to solve the problem, but also to improve the building's energy performance, making it healthier and more comfortable for occupants.