I have a very old stone built end terrace - very exposed to the elements and have real problems with mold on the stone mullions and general damp ingress (not rising). I need proper advice as the best way to take things forward. In the past I have had plaster replaced etc - repointing outside etc etc.. but it constantly comes back.
It has caused severe health problems (due to the mold spores) - but most builders just suggest lining inside with plasterboard walls - with a membrane to stop the damp ingress. I am not sure that this is right. Any advice gratefully received - many thanks.
tony
8 Jun 2010, 10:05 AM
was it re-pointed with lime or cement?
Lime will generally solve all problems.
If it was mine I would do external insulation to PH standard.
Ventilation is important, a whole house system would reduce condensation but cost and a dehumidifier could also help.
How does lining it reduce condensation on mullions?
strange-fish
8 Jun 2010, 10:39 AM
Thanks Tony, it was repointed with cement (didn't know any better!). Cannnot external insulate as it is solid stone cottage in a row of three - so wouldn't be allowed!
Assume they meant to line the mullions too ??
heinbloed
8 Jun 2010, 9:31 PM
If the walls are wet then making the building energy efficient will propably increase the problem. Bricks suck-up moisture, that's in their nature. The old timers had droughty shells and open fire places, this helped to keep the place habitable.
For some structures there is no cure.
External insulation seems to be the only way, as Tony said already. Whatever the advice from any builder is: get the proposed build-up calculated. The dynamic moisture calculation (like wufi) is important. Mould will grow all the better if light and ventilation is excluded, for example by internal drylining.
