How can I tell if my property has rising damp, penetrating damp, or condensation?
Rising damp usually appears at the base of internal walls (tide marks, salt deposits, damp plaster up to ~1m). Penetrating (lateral) damp comes from outside, wet patches after rain, damp to the touch on external walls. Condensation shows as mildew/mould on cold surfaces, especially windows and corners, and is usually linked to poor ventilation. A proper damp survey will diagnose the type and cause.

Do you always have to remove the plaster to treat damp?
Not always. Some damp treatments (e.g., injections or surface coatings) can be installed with minimal plaster removal, but certain solutions for rising damp or salt-contaminated walls may require removal/replacing of plaster to ensure a lasting repair. We’ll recommend the least-invasive, longest-lasting fix after surveying the problem.

What does a damp survey involve and how long does it take?
A damp survey inspects internal and external walls, checks ventilation, looks for plumbing leaks, and may use moisture meters. Typical residential surveys take 30–90 minutes depending on property size; complex issues may require follow-up testing. A survey gives the correct diagnosis and treatment plan, it’s the step that prevents wasted repairs.

How long does plaster take to dry after repair or re-skim?
Most skim coats dry on the surface in 3–7 days; full curing depends on layer thickness, plaster type, humidity and temperature, and can take up to 2 weeks or more for multi-coat jobs. We always advise waiting until plaster is fully cured before decorating

Will damp cause rot or structural damage if left untreated?
Yes! ongoing damp can lead to wet or dry rot, damage plaster and timber, and cause mould that affects health. Early treatment is both cheaper and safer.

What damp-proofing options do you offer?

Typical solutions include chemical damp-proof courses (injections), physical DPCs/membranes, internal tanking systems, breathable external renders and repairs to gutters/flashing to stop penetrating damp. We match the method to the cause and the building type.

How long does a damp-proofing treatment last and do you guarantee your work?
Lifespan depends on method and job quality; many professional DPC treatments come with long-term guarantees from 5–30 years depending on product and installer warranty. Shield offers guarantees for its chosen systems, we’ll confirm terms in your quote. (Note: always read the guarantee terms and scope.)

Can damp be treated without major redecoration?
Sometimes yes, small localised fixes and condensation control can avoid whole-room redecoration. However, when plaster is removed or salt contamination is present, replacement plaster and redecoration are usually required for a lasting finish. We’ll advise on expected disruption at the survey stage.

How much does damp proofing or plaster repair cost?

Costs vary widely by cause, property type and extent of works. Simple treatments (condensation measures, minor patching) are low-cost; full DPC installs, external render or structural repairs cost more. We provide clear, itemised quotes after a survey. (Tip: cheapest is rarely best for damp, opt for proven methods and good guarantees.)

Do you deal with cellar/basement damp and tanking?
Yes. Cellar tanking and membrane systems are standard solutions we install, but the right approach depends on whether water ingress is lateral, groundwater-related, or due to plumbing/root causes. We recommend a survey before specifying a tanking system.

What should I do right now if I find damp or mould?
Open a window to ventilate, avoid heaters blowing directly on the damp patch, and contact us for a survey. Do not just plaster or paint over damp, that only hides salts and moisture and makes the issue worse.

How should I prepare my home for plastering/damp works?
Clear furniture from the work area if possible, remove wall pictures, and expect dust/protection measures. We’ll give a job-specific preparation list in your quote. For larger jobs, consider a neighbour/tenant plan for access and safety. (Shield will discuss logistics when booking.)