Recognising moisture problems – diagnosis of water and moisture infiltration

Diagnosis of moisture problems.

First of all, the causes of the moisture problems must be ascertained.
This diagnosis involves moisture measurements, sampling and analysis, and the interpretation of the results by an expert in the matter.
It is important that the diagnosis is made by a specialised company.
Based on the findings, we can offer you an appropriate, and particularly waterproof, solution.

We offer :

An accurate diagnosis.
A personalised solution.
An efficient approach.
Experienced professionals.
Post-treatment drying inspection.

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Symptoms of moisture problems.

Flaking or crumbling coats of plaster or paint.
Loose or broken plinths.
Wallpaper coming off and moisture stains on the wall.
Damp, moist walls.
Moulds or fungi on beams or walls.
A mouldy smell from moist rooms.
Moulds on clothing and leather.
Moulds on the underside and/or rear of furniture.
Pests such as silverfish or wood lice.
...

Causes of moisture, water infiltration.

A moist house can be due to a variety of factors.
For instance, excessive air humidity and condensation due to faulty ventilation, rising moisture or water infiltration, two types of which can be distinguished.

aboveground infiltration : moisture problems due to torrential rains, splashing water, leaky rainwater drains, leaky drains, condensation of flue gases in chimney ducts,...

Aboveground infiltration occurs in a variety of ways, from a damp spot to dripping water or water running off. The damage is in proportion to the frequency, amount and speed of the infiltrating water. The damage can be permanent, or only periodical, in which case the infiltration is related to e.g. rain showers. The location of the damage is of course a good indication when locating the infiltration source.
An in-depth knowledge of building constructions, however, is indispensable when determining the right cause.

Underground infiltration : moisture problems due to leakage water, leaky sewers, high groundwater table,...

In case of underground situations, a distinction must be made between pressing and non-pressing water.
Pressing water occurs in situations under the groundwater table, where a permanent hydrostatic pressure is exerted on the construction or a part thereof.
Non-pressing water occurs in situations above the groundwater table, for instance leakage water from precipitation seeping into the ground, or capillary water sucked up from the surrounding soil.

The former case is usually quite clear: in case of a serious defect to the seal of the underground construction, the water level inside the building will reach the same level as the groundwater table outside, in a short period of time.
In the latter case, only traces of infiltration are often found, with only occasionally stagnant water in the basement. Here the nuisance is less extensive, but that does not make it less worse, since it makes the basement unusable in most cases.