Damp in storage rooms and underground car parks - a common problem in Icelandic buildings

Damp in storage rooms and underground car parks is a common problem in Iceland, especially in older buildings and apartment blocks. Many people first notice the problem when a musty smell develops, damp patches appear on walls or belongings in storage are damaged. In many cases the problem can be traced to rising damp (capillary action) from the ground entering the concrete and building materials.

Why does damp form in underground car parks and storage rooms?

Storage rooms and underground car parks are often located below ground or partly below ground level. Because of this location, these parts of the building are particularly vulnerable to moisture from the ground.

When the moisture enters concrete walls or floors it can cause:

• Damp in the car park.
• Damp in storage rooms.
• Damp patches on walls.
• Salt deposits on walls.
• White deposits on concrete.
• A musty smell in storage rooms.
• Damp damage to belongings and equipment.

In some cases the problem is visible immediately, but often the moisture builds up over a long period before symptoms appear.

Many housing associations struggle with such problems for years without the cause being properly diagnosed.

Common symptoms

If you notice any of the following, rising damp from the ground may be part of the problem:

• Wet or damp basement walls.
• A musty smell in the storage room.
• Stuffy or unpleasant air.
• Paint peeling off concrete walls.
• Damp damage in the storage room.
• Mould in the storage room.
• Salt deposits on concrete.
• Damp in the concrete floor.
• Rust forming on metal parts.
• Damage to furniture or personal belongings.

Salt deposits on walls are a particularly common indication. As the moisture travels through the concrete it carries dissolved minerals with it, which leave white deposits behind when the water evaporates.

Is the problem always caused by a leak?

No. Although many people assume that damp in an underground car park is caused by a leak or water ingress, the cause is often something else.

Damp problems in underground car parks can be caused by, among other things:

• Rising damp from the ground.
• A poor drainage system.
• Water ingress from outside.
• Inadequate ventilation.
• Condensation due to temperature differences.

That is why it is important to carry out professional moisture measurements and a diagnosis before undertaking costly construction work.

What effects can the damp have?

Damp in storage rooms and underground car parks is not just a cosmetic problem. Persistent damp can affect the condition of the building and cause:

• Damp damage to concrete.
• Deterioration of building materials.
• Mould in the building.
• Reduced air quality.
• Unpleasant odours.
• Increased maintenance costs.

For housing associations this can also affect property values and residents' satisfaction.

Solutions for damp in storage rooms and underground car parks

The right solution depends on the cause of the problem. In some cases drainage, run-off or ventilation needs to be improved. Temporary solutions such as damp-proof paint or moisture barriers are also sometimes used, which hide the symptoms for a while.

If the damp is caused by rising damp from the ground, however, it is important to tackle the cause of the problem itself rather than only the consequences.

Electro-osmosis against damp

One of the solutions used against rising damp from the ground is electro-osmosis technology. Its aim is to reduce or stop the flow of moisture in building materials and contribute to a drier, healthier environment. Electro-osmosis units are often a permanent solution for such damp problems.

Conclusion

Damp in storage rooms, damp in underground car parks, a musty smell, salt deposits on walls and damp damage to concrete can all be indications of rising damp from the ground. With the right diagnosis, the cause of the problem can be found and a solution chosen that tackles it for the long term.

Is your housing association struggling with damp in storage rooms or the car park?

Find out how electro-osmosis technology is used to reduce or stop rising damp from the ground in storage rooms, basements and other parts of buildings.