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Comprehensive Damp Proofing & Wall Restoration in Christchurch.
How Proofterior Helped a Homeowner from Christchurch to Stop Damp, Mould, and Cold Walls for Good.
The Issue: Damp Walls and Cold Air Pockets.
Our team was called to a two-bedroom home in central Christchurch, where the owners noticed persistent damp patches on the bedroom walls and a musty smell after heavy rain. Despite keeping windows open regularly, the problem worsened during colder months. The property, a typical coastal home near Mudeford, faced driving rain exposure and poor insulation, leading to penetrating damp and cold bridging on external-facing walls.
The Survey: Identifying Penetrating Damp and Failing Plaster
Upon inspection, our damp survey revealed high moisture levels in the lower sections of the wall and evidence of salt contamination beneath the paint surface. The external brickwork was sound, meaning the issue stemmed primarily from condensation buildup and trapped moisture behind old gypsum plaster. We advised the homeowner that the room required a full internal damp proofing system and breathable plaster finish to restore a healthy wall surface.
Day 1 – Removing Old Plaster and Preparing the Walls
The first step involved stripping away the old, non-breathable plaster and skirting boards to expose the brickwork beneath. Once cleared, we used industrial dehumidifiers and fans to fully dry the substrate. This stage is crucial, as applying new damp treatments to wet brick can trap moisture instead of stopping it. The space was then prepped with protective sheeting and cleaned for insulation application.
Protective sheeting was laid across flooring, sockets were safeguarded, and furniture was moved for safety. This careful preparation reflects one of the key benefits of our service — from radiator removal to reinstatement, providing a complete, hassle-free experience for homeowners.
Day 2 – Installing Damp Proof Membrane and Replastering
On the second day, we applied a specialist waterproof membrane designed to block rising and penetrating damp while allowing vapour to escape. This barrier was then coated with a coarse plaster base and finished with a fine, breathable skim, creating a smooth and resilient surface. Our technicians also sealed around the window frame to prevent future condensation bridging — a common issue in older Christchurch homes with small, single-glazed windows.
Day 3 – Finishing, Drying, and Reinstatement
By the final day, the plaster had set evenly, and we reinstated the skirtings and electrical fittings, ensuring everything matched the original room layout. We positioned a portable dehumidifier to assist with the natural drying process and monitored humidity levels to ensure a stable environment before decoration. The end result was a warmer, cleaner, and completely dry bedroom ready for painting.
The Outcome: Dry, Warm, and Healthy Living Space
The homeowners were delighted with the transformation. The damp odour had completely disappeared, and the room now retained heat more effectively thanks to the new membrane and breathable finish. This project highlights Proofterior’s expertise in internal damp proofing in Christchurch, offering homeowners long-lasting protection from penetrating damp, condensation, and mould growth — common challenges in Dorset’s coastal climate.
Frequently Asked Questions About Damp Proofing in Christchurch.
What are the common signs of rising damp in Christchurch homes?
Common signs of rising damp in Christchurch properties include peeling paint, flaking plaster, tide marks, crumbling skirtings, and musty odours near floor level. You might also see white salt deposits or dark damp patches along lower walls. Because Christchurch’s coastal air carries higher moisture levels, older brick buildings are more vulnerable to this kind of damp. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s best to book a free damp survey with our team. We’ll identify the cause and recommend lasting damp proofing solutions to keep your home dry and protected.
Do you offer guarantees for your damp proofing work?
Yes. All Proofterior treatments and services come with a written guarantee, supported by moisture readings and photographic documentation. Our team is Checkatrade and Google 5-Star Rated, giving homeowners confidence that their property is protected for the long term.
How long does damp proofing last?
When the source of moisture is treated and the right system is installed, damp proofing is designed to last for many years. Longevity improves with simple upkeep, clear gutters, sound pointing, and good ventilation. We include aftercare so results stay stable.
Do you cover areas outside of Christchurch?
Yes. Proofterior serves Poole, Bournemouth, Southampton, Wareham, Wimborne, Christchurch, and across Dorset. Our team understands local construction styles and weather conditions that commonly lead to damp problems in coastal and inland properties alike.
Yes, we do. Proofterior serves not only Christchurch but also nearby areas including Highcliffe, Mudeford, Southbourne, Bournemouth, and the wider Dorset region. Our team provides complete damp proofing services across the South Coast, from rising and penetrating damp treatments to condensation and mould control. Whether you live near the coast or further inland, we tailor every solution to suit the property’s structure and local climate conditions common to Christchurch and surrounding areas.
Ready to protect your Christchurch property?
Book a damp survey in Christchurch with Proofterior. Our local damp specialists deliver clear diagnosis, tidy repairs, and long-lasting proofing that keeps homes dry, healthy, and comfortable.