10 Jul 2012 9:36 PM:
I've seen 'damp' many a time on Spanish new builds and relatively (less than ten years) new builds where in general the main slab is dampproofed ok to provide a base level dampcourse. Where problems occur is at first floor and above where the concrete slab on this level penetrates the outer skin for a patio or just as a floor level whgere cavity bricks are then built on top. What this creates is a COLD SPOT at the base of the wall on the INSIDE normally adjacent to a window or ewven more so a patio door set especially when double glazed.
I have had a client swear that I was wrong and insisted his wall was leaking. He had his balcony ripped up only to find a perfectly good tailor impermeable membrane in tact and a half metre up the outside wall under the external rendering.
So waht was the damp?
ANSWER: Damp with mould nearly always a result of CONDENSATION in WINTER.
In summer its not a probl;em as windows tend to be OPEN.
VENTILIATION (lack of) is the biggest cause of damp problems in 'new' homes in Spain in my experience.
Mecahnical ventilation is your best solution..have fitted a good quality (British brand) extractor fan with a time delay or humidistat. Not always easy to find but contact me if any trouble finding one.
You need to be changing the air and venting any damp from showers and living conditions especially cooking
Christopher Gamble
First Impression Property Solutions
Thread:
Wall Insulating in Spain
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