Damp Proofing Solutions Archives - Welcome to Safeguard

An Introduction To Green Roofs

maggie_adminsafe — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 09:19:13 +0000

AN INTRODUCTION TO GREEN ROOFS

Green roofs have been with us for centuries. Even before The Hobbits popularised such dwellings, Scandinavians and the Irish were using turf to line their roofs for both protection against the elements as well as a form of insulation. Not only was it cheap but it was also readily available.

But what is a Green Roof?

A green roof is one consisting of living vegetation.

Today, Green roofs are present just about everywhere. We have them on municipal buildings in Durban, Johannesbug and Cape Town, but they are hugely popular overseas especially atop large corporate buildings where the green roof creates a most unique environment.

Why choose a Green roof?

The issue becomes one of why change things? Buildings have existed without them for centuries so what advantages are there to creating a Green Roof?

For a start, all roofs need to be protected against the elements and specifically to prevent the ingress of water and moisture and other harmful effects of nature.

Such waterproofing in itself needs to be protected from UV which affects the thermal expansion and contraction of roofing membranes. By protecting the waterproofing system, by whatever method, we are prolonging its life and saving on unnecessary maintenance costs.

Over the years, Man has expanded his occupation of the environment, and what once was occupied by birds, fauna and animals has now become a concrete jungle. Many of our indigenous flora and fauna are being seriously threatened by a lack of habitat. Green Roofs create little “islands” of vegetation which attract back insects and in turn birdlife.

But, as they say in the ads, that’s not all.

The planting of plants and trees helps to reduce the CO2 in the atmosphere and assists with the filtering of the many chemicals present, from vehicle fumes to exhaust fumes from factories, power stations and other industrial facilities.

It has been scientifically proven that city buildings encourage the build-up of heat – the “Heat island “ effect. Cities can often be as much as 5° C hotter than the surrounding countryside and this in turn has an effect on our climate. Green Roofs help reduce this heat build-up and act as thermal shields – stopping temperature loss from the roofs in winter and keeping them cooler in summer.

In most cases roofs of corporate buildings are simply wasted space – an area where satellite dishes and air-conditioning plants are located.

More and more building owners are recognising the benefits of creating a Green Roof, not just in terms of reducing heating and air-conditioning bills but in utilising the space to benefit their employees – as a recreational area – or as an entertainment area for customers.

Flat dwellers in cities often have nowhere to go to breathe fresh air or take a safe stroll. The roof becomes a meaningful and safe area for them in which to relax, not to mention growing veggies!

Whilst planning requirements in South Africa tend to be some way behind Europe, there is a need to involve town planners in the concept of Green Roofs and to get their buy-in. This is fairly easy in rural environments and more especially some of the environmental eco-estates that are being developed, but does require a degree of acceptance from nearby home owners in an urban area.

What is certain, however, is that a Green Roof is far easier on the eye than one that is painted with Aluminium Paint.

Whilst much heat is lost through building roofs, there is still considerable heat loss from walls. It is, therefore, important that planners understand that providing a Green Roof is not a panacea for all heating and insulation issues. It has to be used in conjunction with other methods of insulation and heat saving. Conventional insulation is normally used as part of a green roof

build-up to provide necessary U value. Green roofs should be considered as an addition to conventional insulation and not as a replacement.

In 1990 Chicago experienced a heat wave that caused hundreds of deaths from the intense temperatures.

In reaction to the unbearable heat that plagued the city, city officials embarked on a citywide cooling strategy that included green roofs.

The idea was simple – plants keep things cool. First, vegetation absorbs heat and moisture keeping the atmosphere cool and comfortable. Plants also give shade which helps prevent solar gain. These two qualities reduce roof temperatures, ambient outdoor temperature and the temperature inside the building.

The roof of Chicago City Hall is now an expanse of green with some 2,000 different species of plants. The project not only helps keep the surrounding air cool, it saves the city thousands of dollars per year in air conditioning costs. The same strategy is finding form in green roofs across the country on hospitals, parking garages, schools and other official buildings.

The energy saving green roof approach deployed in Chicago was based on simulation studies. Studies on the green roofs atop Chicago’s big buildings reveal that those structures can expect a 10% reduction in air-conditioning needs. In other studies, scientists have found that green roofs on smaller buildings can reduce solar heat gain by 95% and reduce cooling needs from 25 – 50%.

Green roofs can be installed on traditional residences providing homeowners with a beautiful way to cut down their heating and cooling costs.

Common Misconceptions

Everyone has their own views on Green Roofs and perhaps the one area that has most concern is the upkeep of the roof once installed.

Quite frankly, if the waterproofing is installed properly along with the drainage system and the correct growing medium and plants the upkeep is minimal. The key is to use indigenous plants that are acclimatised to the local conditions and which do not need any additional watering. Should you install an Intensive Green Roof with trees and other bushes there may well be a need for an irrigation system to supplement local rainfall and these will need the usual attention regarding pruning etc. Indigenous sedum and other ground plants, however, will simply come and go with the seasons.

And the Green Roof will protect the underlying waterproofing. There will be no UV attack and provided that the waterproofing is anti-root protected and there is an adequate run-off to outlets, the waterproofing will not suffer from “ponding” etc.

Many people are worried about what neighbours might say about the appearance of a Green Roof, but experience shows that people become used to them very quickly and are soon won over by the way in which birds and insects are attracted back into the area.

A Green Roof is not a simple thing to install. It requires some forethought.

Most important is an understanding of the local climatic conditions as they will determine the suitability of a Green Roof and more importantly the type of vegetation to plant.

It is pointless planning to plant pine trees and rose bushes on a Green Roof in the Karoo. The plants simply will not survive and the water bill will be horrendous, if water exists in sufficient quantity. Careful thought has to be given to the best match for the local conditions – either grasses or local ground cover in dry areas or perhaps more exotic plants where water is not so scarce. The services of a good horticulturist will also be invaluable as it is not just the plants that are key but also the growing medium. Choosing the wrong soil will be as disastrous as choosing the incorrect plants.

Ecological Benefits

Conversion of Carbon Dioxide to Oxygen, Improving Air Quality
Processing Airborne Toxins Through Photosynthesis
Reduced Noise Pollution
Reduced Heat Island Effect
Prolonged Roof Life
Reduced Debris Sent To Landfills
Recycled and Recyclable Materials In Most Components

Perhaps one of the more important aspects to consider when installing a Green Roof, especially one which is designed to encourage the use of the roof by occupants, is that of safety. There will be a need for good parapet walls with balustrades to prevent would-be bungey jumpers! This is where liaison with the Department of Labour – Occupational Health & Safety – is vital.

Structural Considerations

We all know that torch-on membrane alone can add as much as 5.5kg per sq m to a roof. When you add to this the requirements for both drainage and growing medium as well as the saturated weight of the soil during heavy downpours, the demand on the building structure becomes considerable. Construction of the roof has to be able to withstand these increased weights and architects and structural engineers will have to get together to determine the overall requirements.

Clearly there has to be a good fall to outlets to ensure that excess moisture is removed from the soil and the orientation of the roof is critical in ensuring the best presentation of vegetation to the sun.

The choice of vegetation, as you can see from this slide, will play a major part in determining the type and amount of growing medium and in turn the impact on the structure of the building.

Type of Roof

Pitched Roof

The Scandinavians have long been at the forefront of building Green Roofs and their experience in this field has been crucial to the development of the industry. Their philosophy for the construction of pitched roofs has been utilised the world over and is based on a system of layering – insulation, waterproofing, drainage membrane and growing medium. Almost all their roofs are of the turf kind with some sedum.

The end result is very pleasing to the eye!

Flat Roofs

Flat roofs are constructed in much the same manner. The only real difference is the ability of the roof to accommodate more soil for the more extensive roof gardens.

Waterproofing

Waterproofing layer

Bitumen
Polyurea
TPO (Thermoplastic polyolefin)
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)
GRP (Glass reinforced plastic)
Crystalline Active (concrete decks)
Polyurethane etc.

After ensuring that the roof slab is clean and free of any laitance, dirt, grime or grease, the first step in the process is to waterproof the entire area. There are a range of materials available for this purpose, as you can see above, and the final choice will be down to reliability and the “Greenness” of the product. Many architects are now specifying that the product should have as low a carbon footprint as possible.

It need not be added that once the waterproofing has cured a flood test is imperative. It is pointless adding all the remaining layers only to find that there is a leak somewhere.

Ideally your waterproofing product should be root-resistant. Otherwise there will be a need to build in an additional layer of a root barrier.

The next layer is that of drainage.

A key aspect of any Green Roof is the ability to retain moisture, especially during the drier months.

Drainage can either be achieved by the use of free-drainage aggregate, which will clearly add additional weight to the overall structure, or by the use of dimpled membrane. These dimples retain moisture for use by plants as the surrounding soil dries out – thus sustaining the plants for a longer period once the rains have stopped.

Immediately above the drainage membrane a filter fleece is applied. This is simply a polypropylene membrane – bidum – and is there to stop the dimples in the membrane from clogging up with soil. It also filters out all but the finest of materials to prevent drains etc from becoming blocked.

The growing medium is the next layer to be applied, and it is here where the expertise of a local horticulturist is vital to determine what type of soil is best suited to the plants selected.

The term Bio-diverse roofs applies mainly to man-made materials which absorb UV and water thus preventing excessive run-off. This water is held in the soil while pollutants are removed and the water evaporates back into the atmosphere.

The choice of vegetation is yours. The deciding factor at the end of the day will be the ability of the plants to either survive from natural rainwater or from irrigation.

In persuading property owners to go Green, several issues become relevant:

Initial capital outlay
Reduction in heating/air-conditioning costs
On-going maintenance costs
Safety
Municipal regulations and by-laws
Attitudes

And a whole host of other issues.

Perhaps one of the most important aspects for consideration is that of the impact of a Green Roof on running costs.

How will it affect normal maintenance of the roof?
What are the potential savings?
Any other potential advantages – water re-cycling etc?

Once installed, your Green Roof requires care and attention just like any other asset. It is not something that can be put in place and then ignored.

Outlets need to be kept free of debris, waterproofing needs to be inspected to ensure integrity, parapet walls and balustrades have to be intact to prevent accidents.

And if you want your Green Roof to be a thing of beauty and a haven for wildlife, the plants need to be looked after and nourished where necessary.

The post An Introduction To Green Roofs appeared first on Welcome to Safeguard.

A Variety Of Factors Can Cause Plaster Cracks

maggie_adminsafe — Mon, 10 Nov 2025 05:12:40 +0000

A VARIETY OF FACTORS CAN CAUSE PLASTER CRACKS

How can a property owner be sure that the plaster provided by the smaller or relatively inexperienced building contractor is acceptable, and if not, what can be done about it? It’s not a simple question to answer, says John Roxburgh, lecturer at The Concrete Institute’s School of Concrete Technology.

“Neither SABS specifications nor the National Building Regulations have measurable requirements covering hardened plaster quality. Most contract documents also are not clear on the subject. This means that it may be difficult to force the contractor to make repairs if the plaster is clearly not acceptable,” Roxburgh states.

Here he deals with perhaps the most obvious defect in plastering: cracks – those that are non-structural and the more challenging and nasty type: structural cracks.

“Non-structural cracking is a network of fine cracks, usually in a hexagonal pattern, which typically measures between 5 and 75mm across each hexagon. Craze cracks are usually very fine and shallow and do not extend through the whole depth of the plaster. They are usually the result of over-trowelling a rich mix – one with a high cement content – or using sand containing an excessive amount of dust: more than 15% by mass passing a 0,075 mm sieve. Crazing often occurs within a few hours of the plaster being applied to the wall and cracks may hardly be visible until dust or moisture makes them noticeable. However, the good news is that craze cracks are of relatively little importance, they do not open and close with time, and can be covered using a reasonable quality paint. If necessary, glass fibre tissue can be applied during the painting operation,” Roxburgh explains.

“Map cracking is similar to crazing except that it is usually deeper – sometimes going right through the plaster – and the hexagons of the pattern may measure up to 200mm across. These cracks normally occur when a plaster mix with a high cement content is used or the plaster is allowed to dry too quickly.”

Causes of such excessive early moisture loss may include:

Evaporation – if the wall is not protected from sun and wind;
Suction into the walls, if the masonry units are absorbent and have not been dampened;
Use of a sand that is badly graded and lacks fine material (less than 5% by mass passing the 0,075 mm sieve); and
Not using building lime or a masonry cement when the sand lacks fine material.

Adds Roxburgh: “When the cracks are noticed while the plaster is still plastic, they are often floated closed, only to reappear some time later. These cracks can be filled with a proprietary filler and be painted over. Glass fibre tissue can also be applied during painting. Cracking which results when an excessive amount of water is lost from the plaster in the first hours after application is known as plastic shrinkage cracking. Map cracking can be due to plastic shrinkage as can the horizontal cracks which form at corners and between windows.

“Drying shrinkage cracks are the result of moisture loss after the plaster has hardened. Plaster will always shrink and crack so it is desirable that is should develop a large number of fine, unnoticeable cracks at close spacing. Plasters with very high cement contents and those made with poor quality sand having a high water requirement will tend to develop a few, widely-spaced cracks. Plaster applied in layers that are too thick will also tend to crack in this way. These cracks are normally stable and can be filled with a proprietary filler and be painted over.

“Finally, you could encounter cracks that are clearly structural. These may have resulted from cracking of the wall caused by differential movement of the foundations, moisture expansion or drying shrinkage of masonry units, or thermal movement of the roof. This type of crack often forms in straight vertical or horizontal lines, or in stepped diagonal lines, and may be quite unsightly. The crack width will often vary with the seasons. Because these cracks originate in the wall and not in the plaster, repairing the plaster is ineffective. A specialist should be called in to establish the cause of the cracking and to recommend remedial measures that may include structural alterations which change cracks into movement joints. Visible joints can be hidden by cover strips fixed on one side of the joint or sealed with elastomeric sealants,” Roxburgh concludes.

Courtesy – The Concrete Institute

The post A Variety Of Factors Can Cause Plaster Cracks appeared first on Welcome to Safeguard.

Protecting Your Walls :The Importance of using the right Masonry Sealant

maggie_adminsafe — Mon, 03 Nov 2025 05:52:41 +0000

Protecting Your Walls :The Importance of using
the right Masonry Sealant

Moisture is one of the biggest threats to the structural integrity of buildings. Rain, condensation or groundwater can penetrate walls and lead to cracks, frost damage and the growth of algae, fungus or moss. Over time, salt and lime deposits may appear, leaving unsightly marks, while dirt carried by rainwater can stain masonry surfaces.

The best way to prevent these problems is to protect your walls with a high-quality masonry sealant, which creates a long-lasting barrier against water without affecting the wall’s natural appearance.

How Masonry Sealants Safeguard Your Building

Masonry sealants work by stopping water from entering the walls while allowing trapped moisture to escape. This “breathable” protection helps prevent internal issues such as peeling paint, mould and damaged plaster.

Reducing the risk of structural damage from moisture
Preventing algae, moss and other biological growth
Minimising surface staining and efflorescence
Extending the lifespan and appearance of your walls

Stormdry Masonry Protection Cream: Effective, Long-Term Protection

At Safeguard Chemicals, we offer Stormdry Masonry Protection Cream, a trusted solution for keeping walls dry and protected for decades.

Stormdry is a cream-based sealant that provides up to 25 years of protection with just one coat. Applied with a brush or roller, it penetrates deep into the masonry over several hours. While the wall’s appearance remains unchanged, the internal pore structure is modified to prevent water ingress while still allowing the wall to breathe.

Its thick cream consistency makes application straightforward, ensures treated areas are easy to identify and reduces the risk of splashes or spills.

Why Choose Stormdry from Safeguard Chemicals

Trusted Supplier: Safeguard Chemicals has over 28 years of expertise in damp-proofing and waterproofing
Cream-Based for Easy Application: Applies smoothly by brush or roller with no splashing or spilling.
Maintains Breathability: Protects masonry while allowing walls to naturally release moisture.
Simple Application: Single coat with clear coverage
Long-Lasting Protection: Up to 25 years of protection with BBA approval.
UV Resistant: Offers durable protection against sun exposure.
Invisible Finish: Leaves walls looking natural with zero sheen.

Masonry sealants are a cost-effective way to protect buildings from water damage and maintain their appearance. Stormdry Masonry Protection Cream from Safeguard Chemicals provides long-term, reliable protection that saves time and prevents expensive repairs in the future

The post Protecting Your Walls :The Importance of using the right Masonry Sealant appeared first on Welcome to Safeguard.

Penetrating Damp & Water Repellents

maggie_adminsafe — Tue, 28 Oct 2025 05:17:48 +0000

Penetrating Damp & Water Repellents

Rainwater penetration of the outer skin of a building is not only unsightly but can cause serious deterioration of the building substrate as well as causing considerable damage to interior surfaces. A wet wall is also something that will affect the thermal properties of a building. Simply put, a dry wall is a warm wall. When walls retain more heat, houses stay warmer for longer. This reduces the reliance on heating, which leads to lowered energy bills and reduced household carbon footprints.

In areas where there is considerable frost, water accumulating in the substrate will turn to ice and cause serious spalling of brickwork and concrete. Wet walls are also serious health hazards as they provide a perfect growing medium for fungus and mould.

For many years, exterior stone and brickwork surfaces have been treated with a variety of products to prevent water ingress. Some have sealed the exterior by blocking the pores – varnishes etc. But this can be counter-productive as it does not allow the building to “breathe” – releasing humidity build-up within the building.

Various liquid-based products containing silanes and siloxanes have been used successfully for several decades. These have been either solvent or water-based products which have prevented moisture ingress whilst still allowing the escape of water vapour from the interior of the building. These products, however, simply lined the exterior building surface and were affected by UV attack requiring them to be re-applied every 2-3 years.

Using the same technology as its famous Dryzone Cream, Safeguard Europe developed a cream-based water repellent also containing the same silanes and siloxanes. This cream, applied by brush in one coat, penetrates the surface of the substrate to a depth of 2-3cm making it totally unaffected by UV with its effectiveness being warranted for 25 years. Whilst the cream is white in colour, it is soon absorbed by the substrate and once cured has no visible effect on the original appearance of the substrate. Storm Dry, as it is called, is highly effective in protecting coastal properties not just against water ingress but also the effects of airborne salts.

The cream based consistency of Stormdry eases the application of the product. Treated and untreated areas can easily be identified, while splashing and spillages are avoided due to the thick consistency.

Breathable and Long-Lasting

Advantages of sealing masonry with Stormdry Masonry Protection Cream

Stormdry Masonry Protection Cream has been scientifically proven to improve the thermal performance of solid and cavity walls by keeping water out. It is the most extensively tested waterproofing brick cream on the market. Extensive tests by Lucideon, a highly recognized materials science consultancy, as well as multiple reports commissioned by the UK Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government have found that Stormdry protects insulation and reduces heat loss.

Cream-based, easy application without splashing or spilling

Retains breathability of masonry

25 year protection (BBA-approved)

Long lasting UV resistance

Invisible finish with zero sheen

The post Penetrating Damp & Water Repellents appeared first on Welcome to Safeguard.

Rising Damp

maggie_adminsafe — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 05:08:40 +0000

Rising Damp

Questions Answered & Practical Tips

Rising damp is a common issue in buildings, yet many property owners are unsure how to treat it effectively. In this edition, we answer common questions and provide the Do’s and Don’ts to ensure lasting results, highlighting why Dryzone Cream and Dryrods are the most effective solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is rising damp?

Rising damp occurs when moisture moves up through walls from the ground due to a missing or failing damp-proof course. It can damage plaster, finishes, and even affect the health of occupants.

How can I tell if it is rising damp?

Look for salt deposits, peeling paint, or damp patches s tarting from the floor upwards. Condensation or leaks present differently. A professional assessment is r ecommended for an accurate diagnosis.

What is the most effective treatment for rising damp?

Dryzone Cream and Dryrods are the most reliable solutions. They penetrate the walls to create a new damp-proof barrier, providing long-term protection and peace of mind.

Can I just paint over damp walls?

Painting over damp only masks the problem temporarily. Proper treatment with Dryzone Cream or Dryrods is required t o ensure a durable solution.

Do’s And Don’ts For Treating Rising Damp

DO’S

I dentify the source and confirm it is rising damp, not condensation or leaks.

Check the damp-proof course and install a remedial one if necessary.

Use proven products such as Dryzone Cream and Dryrods for long-term protection.
Prepare walls by removing salt-contaminated plaster up to one metre above visible damp. Allow walls to fully dry before re-plastering or decorating Follow manufacturer instructions to ensure maximum effectiveness.

DONT'S

Do not paint over damp walls as this only hides the problem temporarily.
Do not leave contaminated plaster in place because salt-laden plaster causes damp to reappear.
Do not use untested products as improvised solutions often fail.
Do not block ventilation since adequate airflow helps walls dry faster.
Do not rush repairs because proper preparation, application, and curing are essential.

Conclusion

Rising damp can be effectively managed with the right approach. By following these Do’s and Don’ts and using Dryzone Cream or Dryrods, property owners can achieve l ong-lasting protection, maintain a healthy environment, and preserve the structural integrity of their buildings.

The post Rising Damp appeared first on Welcome to Safeguard.

Proven Damp Treatment Without Compromise

maggie_adminsafe — Thu, 11 Sep 2025 08:30:56 +0000

Proven Damp Treatment Without Compromise!

Proven Damp Treatment

South Africa is rich in architectural history. From Cape Dutch farmsteads to early 20th – century municipal buildings , our
towns and cities are dotted with structures that reflect the passage of time and the evolution of style.
But time and weather take their toll as many of these buildings were constructed long before effective damp- proofing methods
existed.

Understanding the Challenge

Older buildings often lack modern damp – proofing systems. We find

Crushed slate in foundation walls as a nearly barrier ,
Suspended wooden floors with air bricks for ventilation ,
Materials or designs that were never meant to withstand decades of water ingress.

Overtime , changes to building use or structure like blocked vents , sealed floors or modern extensions can exacerbate damp issues. What once worked , may now be failing.

The result ?

Rising damp , penetrating damp and the slow decay of irreplaceable heritage.

Respecting the Law :

The 60 – Year Rule
Under Section 34 of the National Heritage Resources Act , any building over 60 years old is protected by law.
You may not alter , demolish or apply treatments , even paint or plaster without a permit from the relevant heritage authority.

That means any damp treatment done must

avoid altering the structure ’ s appearance ,
be reversible or non – invasive ,
Meet conservation standards

Rising Damp

Construction of these buildings are usually with stone or even clay bricks. Rising damp presents itself on the exterior of walls as a white fluffy powder – efflorescent salts whilst the interior wall surfaces may be of similar construction or even covered in a lime plaster which will start to delaminate and show signs of salts.

Under these circumstances it is possible to create a chemical damp – proof course following the lines of the mortar between the stone and bricks. Dry zone Cream is injected in to holes drilled into the mortar at regular intervals to create a moisture barrier using silanes and siloxanes. This barrier should be created as close to the top of the floors lab as possible. This prevents ground moisture rising above this level and enables treatment of any damaged plaster on the inner surfaces to be effected. It is sound practice to remove plaster 300 mm above floor level or above the highest visible plaster damage and to allow walls to dry out for several days before further treatment. New plaster , lime – based or conventional cement and sand should be mixed with Safeguard Chemicals Renderguard Gold ( a salt retardant ) to prevent the growth of any further salts in the new plaster.

Floor surfaces may also show signs of damp. Where there are floor tiles, signs of efflorescent salts may be seen in the grouting. Since these tiles may be part of the history of the building it may not be possible to remove the tiles to damp – proof the underlying substrate. Under such circumstances and provided that the tiles themselves are not showing signs of damp , the grouting should be raked out and re – placed with new grout mixed with bonding liquid. This should repel moisture for some considerable time.

Penetrating Damp

If moisture starts penetrating the outer skin of the building , the stone /mud bricks and mortar will need to be treated with a water repellent.

In the past this has been achieved using a liquid – based product that had to be applied in 2 coats and repeated every 2 years due to UV attack.

Safeguard has introduced a cream – based water repellent – Storm Dry – that is applied by brush in one coat and penetrates the substrate to a depth of 2 – 3 cm making it totally resistant to UV attack. As a result it has a guaranteed life in excess of 10 years. Whilst the cream is white in colour , it is soon absorbed by the substrate and on curing does not change the appearance of the substrate in anyway.

Any damage to internal plaster should be treated in the same way as Rising Damp.

"Long - lasting Protection Against Moisture - Advanced Penetrating Damp & Water Repellents for Surface Defense . "

Rainwater penetration of the outer skin of a building is not only unsightly but can cause serious deterioration of the building substrate as well as causing considerable damage to interior surfaces. A wet wall is also something that will affect the thermal properties of a building. Simply put , a dry wall is a warm wall. When walls retain more heat , houses stay warmer for longer. This reduces the reliance on heating , which leads to lowered energy bills and reduced household carbon footprints.

In areas where there is considerable frost , water accumulating in the substrate will turn to ice and cause serious spalling of brickwork and concrete. Wet walls are also serious health hazards as they provide a perfect growing medium for fungus and mould.

For many years , exterior stone and brickwork surfaces have been treated with a variety of products to prevent water ingress . Some have sealed the exterior by blocking the pores – varnishes etc. But this can be counter – productive as it does not allow the building to “ breathe ” – releasing humidity build – up with in the building.

Various liquid – based products containing silanes and siloxanes have been used successfully for several decades . These have been either solvent or water – based products which have prevented moisture ingress whilst still allowing the escape of water vapour from the interior of the building. These products , however , simply lined the exterior building surface and were affected by UV attack requiring them to be re – applied every 2 – 3 years.

The post Proven Damp Treatment Without Compromise appeared first on Welcome to Safeguard.

Rising Damp Treatment Failure

maggie_adminsafe — Wed, 03 Sep 2025 10:26:08 +0000

Rising Damp Treatment Failure

Standard Treatment Method

The most common method for treating rising damp is to remove salt-contaminated plaster and then inject a silicone damp-proofing cream at regular intervals into holes drilled along a horizontal mortar course on the affected wall. On a successful treatment, the active silicone ingredient contained within the cream will spread through the mortar course and cure to form a waterproof barrier to damp. The wall is then replastered using a salt-resistant plaster or render.

The most common point of failure with this treatment method is the damp-proofing cream. If a damp-proofing cream with an insufficient amount of silicone active ingredient is used or an insufficient amount of cream has been injected, this waterproof barrier will not properly form and the damp will not be halted.

Why Treatments Fail?

Low Strength or Insufficient Damp Proofing Cream Success depends heavily on the strength of the product. Dryzone Damp Proofing Cream contains over 60 percent active ingredient, which ensures deep penetration and a strong barrier.

Many weaker alternatives contain less than 15 percent active content. Independent tests show that these products fail to spread properly through the mortar, leaving the wall unprotected even if they carry certification.

Rising Damp Treatment in SA

Application Errors in Rising damp treatment in sA

Treatments often fail because of workmanship issues. Examples include injection holes not being fully filled or voids in the masonry diverting product away from the treatment line. In these cases, not enough active ingredient reaches the mortar course and the barrier does not form correctly.

Incorrect Post Treatment Materials

After the injection stage, the choice of finishing system is critical. If a dense and impermeable render such as strong sand and cement is applied, the damp can be forced higher up the wall, causing further damage. To avoid this problem, a breathable waterproofing finish should be applied. The Renderguard gold is designed for this purpose. It controls salts, allows moisture to evaporate, and ensures damp does not rise higher than its original level.

Best Practice Recommendations for rising damp treatment in sA

Use proven high-strength damp proofing products such as Dryzone Damp Proofing Cream.
Ensure every drill hole is fully injected to create a continuous chemical barrier.
Protect the treated wall with Latseal Slurry System to manage salts and moisture effectively.

Advanced Technology – Dryrod Damp Proofing Rods

For long-term reliability, Dryrod Damp Proofing Rods provide an advanced alternative. These fibre rods are pre-saturated with the correct amount of active ingredient and are inserted into drilled mortar holes.

Key Advantages Include

Accurate dosage in every rod
Reliable and consistent diffusion through masonry for damp proofing in SA
No risk of undertreatment caused by workmanship errors
If a cream treatment has failed, a new line of holes is usually required. With Dryrod Rods, the same drill holes can be reused since the formulation continues to spread effectively through previously treated mortar.

Second Time’s The Charm

When a rising damp treatment has failed, it is necessary to install a second damp-proof course treatment. If you are using damp-proofing creams, this treatment must take place on a separate mortar line to the original. Even though the first treatment was unsuccessful, the drill holes will have cured to stop the spread of the cream.

If, however, Dryrod is used to carry out the retreatment, the original drill holes can be used. The chemical formulation of the active ingredient contained within the rods is able to diffuse throughout the previously treated mortar course.

The post Rising Damp Treatment Failure appeared first on Welcome to Safeguard.

What Causes Rising Damp & Is It Real?

maggie_adminsafe — Fri, 22 Aug 2025 05:29:04 +0000

What Causes Rising Damp & Is It Real ?

Rising damp is a form of moisture that moves upward through walls and floors by capillary action. It’s common in older buildings and can lead to significant structural and health issues if not treated.

Main Causes of Rising Damp:

Lack of a Damp-Proof Course (DPC):
Many older buildings were built without a DPC, a barrier designed to stop moisture from rising through masonry.

Failure or Damage to the DPC:
Cracks, bridging or chemical breakdown can cause an existing DPC to become ineffective over time.

Bridging of the DPC:
This happens when moisture bypasses the barrier.

Porous Building Materials:
Bricks, mortar or stone with high porosity can easily absorb ground moisture if unprotected.

Poor Drainage Around the Building:
Water collecting around the base of a building due to poor drainage can increase the amount of moisture available to rise.

High Ground Water Table:
In areas where the water table is naturally high, there is more moisture pressure pushing water up into the building materials.

What Are the Signs of Rising Damp:

Damp patches on walls, especially from ground rising up the wall
Peeling & blistering paint or wallpaper
Tidemarks or efflorescent salt deposits
Damp & musty smell
Rotting skirting boards

Rising Damp Solutions in SA

How Do We Treat Damp

Install a New Damp-Proof Course (DPC):
Chemical injection DPC is a more modern method where a silane/siloxane-based cream or rod is injected into the base of walls to form a new waterproof barrier.

Remove and Replace Damaged Plaster:
Salt-contaminated plaster should be hacked off up to at least 300 mm above the highest point of contamination.
Use Safeguard’s salt-retardant additive (Renderguard Gold) to replaster the walls.
Where necessary, the contaminated wall must be tanked with a cementitious slurry before replastering.

Safeguard’s Dryzone Patented DPC Cream:
This is the world’s No. 1, highest-strength DPC cream used by contractors worldwide to treat rising damp.

Why is Dryzone Considered a Superior Choice for Rising Damp Solutions in SA?

For forty years at the forefront of research and development in chemical DPCs has resulted in Dryzone Damp-Proofing Cream.

Due to its advanced formulation, reliable performance, and ease of application, here’s what sets it apart:

Proven Effectiveness for rising damp solutions in sa:

Designed to combat rising damp, Dryzone has been extensively tested and proven to deliver long-lasting protection.

High Strength is Best
When considering a chemical damp-proof course, ensure that the cream is a high-strength silane/siloxane formulation.

When Comparing Damp-Proofing Cream Strengths, there are 2 separate elements to consider:

The overall strength of the active ingredient in the wider formulation
The composition of the active ingredient itself
A 100% active silane formulation inhibits the formulation’s ability to cure – leading to compatibility issues with older homes. Conversely, a predominantly siloxane solution will struggle to effectively waterproof between injection points, leading to DPC failure and rising damp
Contact Safeguard Chemicals, SA to learn more.

The post What Causes Rising Damp & Is It Real? appeared first on Welcome to Safeguard.

Damp Proofing Solutions Archives - Welcome to Safeguard

An Introduction To Green Roofs

AN INTRODUCTION TO GREEN ROOFS

But what is a Green Roof?

Why choose a Green roof?

Common Misconceptions

Ecological Benefits

Structural Considerations

Type of Roof

Pitched Roof

Flat Roofs

Waterproofing

Waterproofing layer

A Variety Of Factors Can Cause Plaster Cracks

A VARIETY OF FACTORS CAN CAUSE PLASTER CRACKS

Protecting Your Walls :The Importance of using the right Masonry Sealant

Protecting Your Walls :The Importance of using the right Masonry Sealant

How Masonry Sealants Safeguard Your Building

Stormdry Masonry Protection Cream: Effective, Long-Term Protection

Why Choose Stormdry from Safeguard Chemicals

Penetrating Damp & Water Repellents

Penetrating Damp & Water Repellents

Breathable and Long-Lasting

Advantages of sealing masonry with Stormdry Masonry Protection Cream

Rising Damp

Rising Damp

Questions Answered & Practical Tips

Frequently Asked Questions

What is rising damp?

How can I tell if it is rising damp?

What is the most effective treatment for rising damp?

Can I just paint over damp walls?

Do’s And Don’ts For Treating Rising Damp

DO’S

DONT'S

Conclusion

Proven Damp Treatment Without Compromise

Proven Damp Treatment Without Compromise!

Proven Damp Treatment

Understanding the Challenge

The result ?

Respecting the Law :

Rising Damp

Penetrating Damp

"Long - lasting Protection Against Moisture - Advanced Penetrating Damp & Water Repellents for Surface Defense . "

Rising Damp Treatment Failure

Rising Damp Treatment Failure

Standard Treatment Method

Why Treatments Fail?

Rising Damp Treatment in SA

Application Errors in Rising damp treatment in sA

Incorrect Post Treatment Materials

Best Practice Recommendations for rising damp treatment in sA

Advanced Technology – Dryrod Damp Proofing Rods

Key Advantages Include

Second Time’s The Charm

What Causes Rising Damp & Is It Real?

What Causes Rising Damp & Is It Real ?

Main Causes of Rising Damp:

What Are the Signs of Rising Damp:

Rising Damp Solutions in SA

How Do We Treat Damp​

Why is Dryzone Considered a Superior Choice for Rising Damp Solutions in SA?

Proven Effectiveness for rising damp solutions in sa:

When Comparing Damp-Proofing Cream Strengths, there are 2 separate elements to consider:

Protecting Your Walls :The Importance of using
the right Masonry Sealant

How Do We Treat Damp