The Assessment and Diagnosis of Rising Damp in Masonry Walls in Kampala Region Buildings with Recommended Treatment Methods

Abstract

Dampness is defined as an excessive quantity of moisture contained in building materials and components that causes adverse movements or deterioration and results in unacceptable internal environmental conditions (Briffet, 1994; Halim, 2012; Parrett, 2004). A building is considered to be damp when the moisture becomes visible through discoloration and staining of finishes, deposition of hygroscopic salts in form of efflorescence, flaking of painted walls and mold growth on surfaces. (Department of the Environment. London, the stationary office, 1998). Dampness tends to cause many problems to a building with dire health, environmental, social and economic implications. It causes rapid deterioration of building materials and components, may lead to structural problems, degrade finishes, and results in deterioration in furniture, fixtures, and fittings (Briffett, 1994). All these problems lead to increased maintenance costs and devaluation of the buildings’ economic worth. Recent studies have also shown that dump-affected living areas contribute to respiratory illness in occupants. According to a study carried out in 1997 by the World Health Organization, people who live in damp homes are twice as likely to suffer from asthma when compared to those who live in homes without damp problems.