The River Medway runs from the Weald through Tonbridge and Maidstone to the estuary at Rochester, Chatham and Gillingham. Along its length are thousands of Victorian and Edwardian terraces, and the low-lying ground near the river brings its own damp challenges.
Rising damp in older terraces
Many Medway terraces were built with slate damp proof courses that have since cracked or been bridged by raised ground, paths and render. Rising damp shows as tide marks, salts and decayed plaster on the lower part of ground floor walls.
Flood risk along the river
Tonbridge and Maidstone both have riverside areas that have flooded in the past. Walls soaked by floodwater need careful drying, and below-ground rooms near the river can need waterproofing.
Condensation in converted flats
Many larger Victorian houses in the Medway towns have been converted into flats. New kitchens and bathrooms without enough ventilation often lead to condensation and black mould, especially in bedrooms and on north-facing walls.
Signs to look for
- Tide marks up to about a metre above the floor
- White, fluffy salt deposits on plaster
- Black mould around windows and in corners
- A damp, musty smell under floors
Diagnosis first
Because rising damp, condensation and penetrating damp can look alike, we always find the cause before recommending treatment.
Read more about damp proofing in Kent and condensation and mould control in Kent.
