Seepage and rising damp in converted garages.
Learn why converted garages-seepage and rising damp are not a good mix. Also the reasons why garages cannot be practically transformed into living areas without creating significant problems. QBIS.
Serious problems that will occur from rising damp in a converted garage.
- Will cause rotting of timber.
- Likely to attract termites
- Cause health problems with inhabitants.
The concrete slab is not likely to have a moisture barrier fitted below it. This would not have been a requirement for a non-living, garage area, when it was originally built.
High moisture reading indicating rising damp in previous garage slab.
Moisture meter showing wet reading. The reading was taken after an extended dry period, therefore the reading is highly likely to increase (possibly considerably) in extended periods of rain. Normal readings should be around 80 also green and dry.
This is not acceptable in a living area!
Termites and association with converted garages.
- Termite activity and damage is usually associated with converted garages, rising damp and seepage.
- Lack of affective barriers and required clearances between soil and timber allows termite access.
- Moisture attracts termites.
- Wall coverings allow concealment of termite activity and damage.
This garage conversion was advertised by the agent as a habitable area!
Various reasons garages must not be transformed into living areas.
- Surface water entry.
- Seepage.
- Rising damp
- Low ceiling height.
- Termite damage.
- Not suitable for use as a habitable area.
- Inadequate drainage
- Insufficient ground clearances.
- Lack of vapor barrier below the slab.
These serious problems are good enough reasons why garages cannot be effectively used as living areas.
Converted garages-seepage and rising damp, related material that may assist.
Seepage and drainage:
Qld Government on water complaints-stormwater-runoff and drainage
Termite management: