Damp Proof Course Suspended Timber Floor

Whilst not commonly spoken about by property owners dpcs play a key role in almost all buildings so it makes sense to stay fully aware of what a dpc looks like what it does and why it matters.

Damp proof course suspended timber floor. The absence of a damp proof course in older buildings can be rectified by creating a. Standards for damp proof courses are provided in bs 8215 1991 code of practice for design and installation of damp proof courses in masonry construction. Conversely the damp course could be above the floor but the plaster may be covering it. At the turn of the 18th century when construction techniques moved from boarded floors installed directly on the ground to suspended timber floors over a ventilated chamber the innovation solved a significant problem.

Solid concrete floors in older houses rarely had a damp proof membrane dpm under the concrete. Having a high quality damp proof course dpc is essential for maintaining a healthy and structurally sound property. When constructing an extension or a new build home it is important that damp proofing measures are taken during the initial construction phase itself. If the floor is slightly damp moisture can wick up the walls causing rising damp.

The damp proof course dpc is generally applied at basement levels which restricts the movement of moisture through walls and floors. Previously floor timbers had been prone to damp and rot thanks to their direct contact with the moist ground. Rising damp is the symptom. In suspended timber ground floors between the timber and materials that can carry moisture from the ground.

In the case of timber floors ventilators should be spaced at no more than 2m centres and within 450mm of the end of any wall. Damp proofing concrete floors above ground damp proofing for extensions. These days damp proof membranes are required in the construction of all new buildings to prevent rising damp.