Analyzing the origins and consequences of dampness in building structures: A case study at mile 50 in the New Juaben Metropolitan Assembly

Abstract

Dampness is a continuing cause of distress to building occupants. The effects of dampness have become a major problem when it invades into building. It is also a possible source of or a contributor to illness and it encourages deterioration in the fabric of the building. With an emphasis on existing buildings and some coverage of the design of new buildings, the objectives of this research are to investigate the causes of dampness during and after the construction of buildings, identify the effects of dampness on the building and its occupants and offer recommendations on the above mention issues. The level of dampness causes and effects differ across geographic areas, climates, and building types. A descriptive survey technique was used to gather information about rising damp in the municipality which includes questionnaires, interviews, and personal observations. According to the findings, the condition resulting in rising dampness to the base of walls was the lack of incorporation of damp-proof courses during construction. Also, the problem of rising dampness reoccurs shortly after treatment because of the application of the wrong treatment method as well as the absence of damp treatment specialists. The effects of rising dampness led to damage to plaster work, crumbling of masonry, peeling of paintwork, efflorescence on wall surfaces, uncomfortable, unattractive rooms, and the cost of painting a room or building yearly. From the findings, it is recommended that damp proof courses (DPCs) should be placed through the full thickness of the base of walls below floor level to form an impervious layer that keeps rising damp out of the buildings.