Benefits of a quality DPM (damp proof membrane)

A quality DPM (damp proof membrane) also safeguards decorative finishes and supports better air quality and energy efficiency.  A damp proof membrane (DPM) blocks moisture from entering walls and floors, helping prevent damp, mould, rot, and structural damage.  For effective protection and durability, a DPM should be impermeable, appropriate gauged thickness, and be correctly installed as a continuous barrier in line with British Standards (BS EN 14909:2012).

Damp Proof Membranes (DPMs) are essential for preventing moisture from seeping through concrete floors, protecting properties from rising damp, penetrating damp, and condensation.

For full protection from rising and penetrating dampness, a damp-proof membrane should overlap with a Damp Proof Course (DPC). The DPC should be placed within brickwork, preventing damp from rising through capillary action.  A DPC is typically installed at least 150mm above external ground levels, with the membrane folded up the inside wall and over the DPC, creating a continuous, effective barrier.

Delta DPM

Delta DPM provides a tear-resistant, no-slip surface that grips the blind layer and offers good puncture resistance. It can be easily sealed with Delta Sealing tape and comes in a convenient 4m x 25m size, reducing the need for additional sealing products in many applications.

The word for a material’s ability to allow vapour (specifically water vapour) to pass through it is permeable or, more specifically, vapour permeable. This property is often described as breathability, particularly in the context of fabrics and building materials.

Low permeability refers to a material’s resistance to fluid flow, due to small, isolated, or blocked pore spaces.

Quality DMP’s and waterproofing membranes should be “impermeable barriers”.

Quality in construction

Prioritising quality over cost is essential for achieving excellence and long-term success in any industry.  Quality products are designed to extend the life cycles of assets, ensuring long-term reliability and performance.

Despite the frequent use of the term ‘quality’ in construction, achieving and maintaining it remains a significant challenge.  How does the concept of quality apply? Is it more relevant to designers, manufacturers, developers, or end users?  Ultimately, “quality” can benefit all.

Whilst cost will always remain king, high-quality construction, whether material or design, minimises errors and defects, thus reducing costly repairs or remediation. This leads to projects staying on schedule and within budget, maintaining cost and timeline integrity.

With the drive for net zero across the industry, getting it right first time will reduce waste, minimise reworks and contribute to environmental conservation.  Increasing quality will reduce a projects environmental footprint through efficient use of materials and energy.

Adopting a pre-emptive approach to quality management involves reducing risk and implementing best practices. This requires early collaboration between designers, manufacturers, contractors, and sub-contractors. Quality professionals must embed a collaborative approach early in the process to ensure all stakeholders understand their roles in ensuring quality.

Quality should be a given, not a variable, in the built environment.  Not making just financial sense but also making real sustainable sense.  Approaches to quality, requires a change of mindset, not just a tick-box exercise.  Using the right materials, the right tools, engaging the right teams early in the process and progressively inspecting quality from the outset, will result in a pre-emptive risk-mitigation approach, saving time, money and resources.

Always Happy to Help

Our DMP Membranes are backed by a 30-year warranty, reflecting our commitment to providing the highest quality products.  Terms and conditions apply for warranty criteria.  For detailed information, please visit our website at www.deltamembranes.com/technical

Delta’s field Technical Teams are equipped to offer valuable assistance, conducting comprehensive surveys to help you select the most fitting waterproofing system for your project needs. This service ensures the chosen solution suits your specific requirements perfectly.

Reach us at 01992 523 523 or drop us an email at info@deltamembranes.com.

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