Cost of damp proofing per square meter in South Africa - Kandua
When it comes to damp proofing there are three steps – INSPECT, DRY, REPAIR. In many cases, damp can be unwittingly encouraged due to poor maintenance. Here are approximate costs for damp proofing:
| Interior Rising Damp Less Than 10m | R 830.00 per meter |
| Interior Rising Damp More Than 10m | R 760.00 per meter |
| Exterior Rising Damp Less Than 10m | R 680.00 per meter |
| Exterior Rising Damp More Than 10m | R 600.00 per meter |
Finding the source of the damp is your first step. The cause needs to be remedied so it will not be a recurring problem. Once you have done that, you will need to determine what type of damp it is before you can repair and a Pro will assist with this. It is always important to get in a professional to deal with any damp issues so it can be remedied properly. It is important to note that damp proofing is charged per square meter.
In addition to the damage damp can cause to your property, it can cause major health issues. Mould, mildew, and bacteria growth in wet, damp walls, floors, or ceilings are definite triggers for people suffering from asthma, bronchitis, or other lung and breathing issues.
How do you know you need damp proofing?
- Windows – Condensation on windows in the morning, along with small puddles of water along window sills, can indicate high moisture levels within your house. This can be both a cause, or symptom, of damp. Black mould may also develop on wooden and PVC window frames, and silicone sealant used around the edge of frames.
- Bathrooms and kitchens – Look at the grouting and sealant for signs of black mould. Check around window frames and on ceilings for similar damage. Look inside cabinets and cupboards to see if there are any areas of staining and mould growth and pay attention to musty smells.
- Furniture and soft furnishings – Black mould can grow on the inside of curtains, blinds and on upholstered surfaces such as sofas. Check the back of furniture for specks of mould and also for cloudy condensation on wooden and plastic surfaces.
- Basements and unheated storage spaces – A musty, damp smell is likely to be the first indicator of a problem here. Whilst you’re down there, check for staining and mould on painted walls and woodwork.
What type of damp is it? And how can it be fixed?
Damp proofing costs are based on per square meter, however there are a number of other factors effecting the cost as damp proofing treatment can be very broad depending on what sort of damp it is. Each one will have different causes and different treatments – with a wide range of costs depending on the diagnoses.
Rising damp – One way to treat and damp-proof internal walls in this case is with a damp-proofing cream which forms a protective barrier. These can be used on many different types of wall, including brick and stone. Alternatively, a mortar can be injected into walls where it forms a crystalised barrier to stop water rising.
Penetrating damp – Masonry protection treatments are available to target penetrating damp, but this should be done alongside measures to fix down pipes and guttering if it is to be kept at bay for the long term.
Condensation and ventilation – Areas prone to condensation are bathrooms and kitchens – where hot air clashes with cold air during the winter months and causes moisture to form on windows and walls. Ventilation is key so air vents should never be blocked off – even if they do let cold air in. Extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms can also help pull warm air out of rooms when cooking or showering.
Thermal imaging
Thermal imaging uses infrared cameras to detect moisture that cannot be seen by the human eye. There are a number of areas where moisture can accumulate that are often overlooked in typical inspection processes, or require extensive damage to the property to find them. That is why many are turning to thermal imaging as part of their building inspection.
Benefits of using thermal imaging
- It can identify otherwise unseen areas of water or moisture ingress
- It uses non–invasive testing methods
- Findings are presented as a clear images
- Includes analysis and photos in a detailed report
Guarantees for damp proofing
Many damp proofing specialists offer guarantees on the work they do and the materials they provide. While this can give the homeowner peace of mind, it is important to understand your guarantee. Generally, materials carry a 10 year manufacturer’s guarantee. But bear in mind, no guarantee will be honoured should there be any changes or interference to work carried out after completion by a 3rd party.
Finding the right Pro
Kandua.com has a list of vetted, background-checked damp proofing specialists all over South Africa that are perfect for the job. You can get multiple quotes in 1 minute or less.
All you need to do is:
- Answer some questions about the job
- Share your contact details so no more than 5 Pros can contact you directly
- You’ll be contacted with quotes or a request for more info by affordable, experienced and trusted Pros
- Read their online reviews
Choose the Pro that best suits your requirements. Then invite your Pro to view your damp so that you can discuss details of the repair.
