Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Treating Damp Yourself
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Thinking of tackling damp on your own? DIY damp repair is absolutely doable if you avoid these common pitfalls.
Let’s save you some time (and frustration!) with our top 5 mistakes to steer clear of:
❌ 1. Not Identifying the Correct Damp Type
Rising, lateral and penetrating damp need different treatments. Misdiagnosing the issue leads to the wrong fix and the damp comes right back.
✔️ Tip: Refer to our previous blogs or reach out if you’re unsure.
❌ 2. Skipping Surface Preparation
Damp repair isn’t just about applying a product, it’s also about prepping the wall so it can absorb and bond properly.
✔️ Use Sugar Soap to clean grime, grease and old residue first.
❌ 3. Sealing Moisture Inside the Wall
Painting over damp or using non-breathable materials traps moisture inside, worsening the problem.
✔️ Always use breathable plasters and paints when treating damp.
❌ 4. Not Allowing for Negative Pressure
Lateral damp (especially in below-ground areas) pushes moisture laterally.
✔️ Products like RefurbiSOL are designed to withstand negative pressure, not just block it.
❌ 5. Using the Wrong Additives or Skipping Them Entirely
Regular plaster won’t cut it when walls are damp.
✔️ RefurbiCRETE and RefurbiSOL improve flexibility, adhesion and drying time, essential for lasting repairs.
✅ Pro Tip:
Our DIY Damp Kits are tailored to each type of damp and include everything you need (except the sand, cement, and a little elbow grease).
📦 Available online or for pickup at our Booysens, Gauteng location.