Damp proofing breeze blocks
Hi all.
So... I have a breeze block wall, the outside is bare blocks. The inside is old plasterboard.
This was an old (20 years?) utility room added on to a Victorian house.
I have no access to the bare blocks due to neighbours boundary.
The old plasterboard is damp.
Can I remove the plasterboard and seal the breeze blocks from the inside?
If yes, what should I seal them with?
Can I then put plaster board on the breeze blocks?
We want to use the room for a fridge, washing machine etc.
Any advise gratefully received.
Many thanks
Stephen
Advice from 4 local tradespeople
Hi Stephen,
Yes, you can remove the damp plasterboard and seal the breeze blocks from the inside. Here are the steps you can follow:
1. Remove the Old Plasterboard: Carefully take down the old plasterboard, disposing of any damp or moldy material safely.
2. Inspect and Clean the Breeze Blocks: Once the plasterboard is removed, inspect the breeze blocks for any cracks or damage. Clean the surface to remove any dirt, dust, or debris.
3. Seal the Breeze Blocks: Apply a waterproofing sealant to the breeze blocks. A product like Drylok, Sika, or another masonry waterproofer would work well. These products help to prevent moisture from penetrating the blocks.
4. Install a Vapor Barrier: After the sealant has dried, consider installing a vapor barrier over the breeze blocks. This additional layer will help to keep moisture from the blocks from affecting the new plasterboard.
5. Reinstall Plasterboard: Install new moisture-resistant plasterboard (often called green board) over the vapor barrier. This type of plasterboard is designed to withstand higher humidity and is ideal for areas like utility rooms.
6. Finishing Touches: Finally, you can finish the plasterboard with plaster, paint, or any other desired wall covering.
Using moisture-resistant materials and proper sealing techniques will help ensure the longevity and usability of your utility room. If you encounter any severe damp issues or structural concerns, consulting with a professional may be beneficial.
Yes, you can remove the plasterboard and apply a damp proofing paint that acts as a membrane. You can dot and dab the plasterboard back and it should work.
what u need strip plaster board, get a membrane from wicks, pin to the top of blocks inside, drop to floor.get some 2x1 inch batterns pin to wall ,fix them at 2foot centres ,when u fix plaster board back, leave 2inchs of the floor to vent the wall, ok
Hi Stephen.
Damp proofing a single breeze block wall with no access to the external side is going to give you problems when comes to damp proofing.
You see you can remove the damage plasterboard internally, dry out the area and apply a dpc at floor level. However this will only help with rising damp.
What you really need is to protect the out layer from the weather and moisture.
This can be done for example by using cladding.
But if you can not access this area.
A second wall constructed internally with insulation/ ventilation would resolve but I feel this would only resolve the issues up to 70%
Protection externally is needed,
1. Wall removed and constructed again with external protection.
2. Cladding or waterproof render to breeze block wall
