What is a Damp Proof Membrane?

We sell various coverings and coatings that form damp-proofing membranes.

• A physical DPM is a plastic covering that holds back moisture.
• A liquid DPM is a coating that cures to form a damp-proof barrier.

Using Damp-Proof Membranes on Walls.

Condensation is a leading cause of dampness, but not the only one. Water soaking through walls from the outside can result in damp penetration problems. Groundwater rising from foundation walls may also cause dampness issues.

Our damp-proof membranes relieve these troubles. They isolate wet walls from internal living areas. The HDPE plastic membrane has studs that create an air gap behind it. The cavity allows moisture in the walls to evaporate.

Work that stops water from penetrating or rising through walls is crucial to treating damp buildings. Replacing salt-contaminated wall plaster is also a vital part of damp-proofing. However, it slows evaporation and prolongs drying if done before the walls have dried.

Fitting a damp-proof membrane with mesh on one side overcomes this issue. The web provides a key for plasterboard or plaster. Using a mesh membrane allows decoration to occur quickly after injecting a DPC or weather-proofing external masonry. The covering isolates wet brickwork from plastered finishes. Moisture can evaporate from the wall in the cavity behind the membrane as it dries.

Our 3 mm high mesh membrane is a damp-proofing barrier with BBA approval. It is available in several roll sizes. It also comes as part of our bestselling damp control kits. The robust cavity drain membrane is quick and easy to install. It has a durable life expectancy exceeding 50 years.

Using Damp-Proof Membranes on Concrete Floors.

Concrete can be a porous material. It can absorb moisture from the ground. Wetness can become an issue if a damp-proof membrane is damaged or missing. Wet floors can cause damp patches, soak carpets and warp timber laminates.

One option is to break up the floor and install a new DPM beneath a new slab. A better solution is to lay a 3 mm membrane. The stand-off studs create an air gap. The cavity allows moisture within the floor to evaporate and the vapour to disperse at the membrane edges.

The membrane can support a 65 mm screed or an insulated floating floor. If you need to lay floor tile tiling, use the 3 mm mesh-faced damp-proof membrane. The mesh takes good quality tiling grout.

Using Liquid Damp-Proof Membranes.

We have two different types of liquid damp-proof membranes. One is an SBR latex-based formula, and the other is an epoxy.

Apply the first to porous surfaces beneath tiles, floor screeds, or render coats. Our paint-on, damp-proof membranes are highly versatile. They cure to form a seamless and flexible watertight coating.

Cover existing concrete floors with our epoxy floor paint. The system uses a primer and a top coat. It sets to form a hard-wearing, waterproof finish. This epoxy surface coating negates the need to replace the existing screed.

For below-ground waterproofing membranes, visit our Basement Waterproofing section. You can also watch our 'how-to' videos on YouTube.

Twistfix stocks a wide range of damp and waterproofing membranes. We offer low trade prices and fast delivery across the UK. Don't hesitate to contact us for advice on choosing the best type of damp-proof membrane for your needs. Our expert team are always happy to help.