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What tradesman do I need for damp under a bedroom window cill

Posted by Andy Dutson, on
Background info: End of terrace 1900 build house. I had the walls skimmed recently in the back bedroom but only after stripping the lining paper did I notice damp patches under the window. There seemed to be some remedial attempt to patch plaster bits of that area and it was these bits that were damp. The plasterer (who also deals with damp) took parts around there back to the brick but the brick was dry and actually needed PVA for the plaster. Since it was skimmed there was a small patch of damp still. The exterior sandstone cill it a bit battered and it was silicone sealed at the top where it meets the window frame as there was a gap. Independently I have had 2 roofers check the roof and both have given the ok there. One said the pointing is fine around the window as well. The edges of the window frame seal could do with re sealing externally as well I think so this may be something to do with it. There is also an air brick above the window on the same side as the leak. as the vent has not yet been added internally I can see right to the other side and the 2 layers of bricks are on show with the cavity gap also on show. There is bits of wood to form a makeshift "tunnel" between the internal and external sides but there is the cavity gap exposed as well. As I have had a plasterer who "deals" with damp and also 2 roofers not be able to remedy the problem I am unsure as to what tradesman I need. Any guidance appreciated! Andy
Nicholas Mitchell

Nicholas Mitchell

Hi Andy, as the damp patch is under the sill its too local to be from a high air vent. cavity walls started to appear in the uk 1920 onwards, I really do think yours is solid cavity. the mortar running through the walls is old & dry. it will pull water through like veins until it reaches the internal side, producing a damp patch. Seal the sandstone sill & local brickwork with a brick sealer, Check for hairline cracks. These produce a natural force called capillary action. The best way to see this working is with 2 pieces of glass. Drop a little water on 1 piece & then sandwich the two together. The water will spread instantly between the two. Hairline cracks are a cause of unseen leaks like yours, If its been raining capillary action will naturally pull the water in. Use a good sealant between the timber sill & sandstone sill & around the perimeter brickwork/sandstone sill. Hope that helps Nick

liam kinsella

Hello Andy, I'd guess without viewing that it's a lack of ventilation how big is the air brick. Do you have trickle vents in the windows? I'd suggest keep the door open and ensure you have as much ventilation as possible. It is an old house that would've had no central heating and timber framed windows single glazed. Essentially the house will have been letting heat out, but the heat will also have been at lower temperatures. Now the heating will provide higher temps internally with less heat escaping and less ventilation. So essentially a double whammy. Hope this is of some use, Liam
Jeff Adams

Jeff Adams

Not being a specialist on this. but common sense is sometimes the best solution. Check the guttering. Or get inside and look to see if you can see any light which can suggest leaks elsewhere contributing regards Jeff

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