Damp Walls in Lanzarote: Causes, Detection & Solutions

Why Are My Walls Damp?

Damp walls are a common problem in properties across Lanzarote, but the causes aren't always obvious. What looks like simple condensation could actually be a hidden water leak causing ongoing damage.

Understanding the type of dampness is the first step to solving the problem.

Types of Wall Dampness

1. Rising Damp

Water from the ground rises up through walls by capillary action.

Characteristics:

• Affects ground floor walls only
• Tide marks up to 1 metre high
• Salt deposits on wall surface
• Peeling paint and wallpaper

Common in Lanzarote: Less common due to dry climate, but can occur in older properties without damp-proof course.

2. Penetrating Damp

Water enters through the wall from outside.

Characteristics:

• Can appear at any height
• Worse during or after rain
• Often localised to specific areas
• May follow cracks or damaged pointing

Common in Lanzarote: Very common, especially in properties exposed to weather or with aging exteriors.

3. Condensation

Warm, moist air meeting cold surfaces creates moisture.

Characteristics:

• Worse in winter months
• Often in corners and behind furniture
• Accompanied by mould growth
• Affects multiple rooms

Common in Lanzarote: Less common due to warm climate and good ventilation, but can occur in poorly ventilated properties.

4. Pipe Leaks

Hidden water pipes leaking behind walls.

Characteristics:

• Persistent dampness regardless of weather
• May be warm if hot water pipe
• Often localised to specific spots
• Can be accompanied by low water pressure

Common in Lanzarote: Very common, especially in older properties with aging pipework.

How to Identify the Cause

Visual Clues

| Sign | Likely Cause | |------|--------------| | Tide mark at consistent height | Rising damp | | Damp after rainfall | Penetrating damp | | Black mould growth | Condensation | | Warm damp patch | Hot water pipe leak | | Continuous dampness | Pipe leak |

DIY Tests

The Foil Test:

1. Tape aluminium foil to the damp wall
2. Seal all edges with tape
3. Wait 24-48 hours
4. Check both sides of foil

• Moisture on wall side = internal source (pipe leak or rising damp)
• Moisture on room side = condensation

The Dangers of Ignoring Damp Walls

Untreated dampness leads to:

• Structural damage: Weakened walls and plaster
• Mould growth: Health risks especially for respiratory conditions
• Electrical hazards: Water and electricity don't mix
• Property devaluation: Damp is a major concern for buyers
• Increasing repair costs: Problems worsen over time

Professional Leak Detection for Damp Walls

When pipe leaks are suspected, professional detection is essential:

Technology We Use

Thermal Imaging: Leaking pipes create temperature differences visible on thermal cameras. This non-invasive method shows us exactly where water is flowing behind your walls.

Moisture Mapping: Electronic moisture meters create a detailed map of dampness, helping identify the source and extent of water damage.

Acoustic Detection: Sensitive microphones can hear the sound of water escaping from pipes, even through walls and floors.

Tracer Gas: For difficult-to-find leaks, we inject harmless tracer gas into pipes and detect where it escapes.

Solutions for Different Dampness Types

For Pipe Leaks

1. Professional leak detection to locate source
2. Repair or replace damaged section
3. Allow walls to dry (may take weeks)
4. Replaster and redecorate

For Penetrating Damp

1. Identify entry point
2. Repair external wall, pointing, or seals
3. Consider external waterproofing
4. Allow drying before redecorating

For Rising Damp

1. Install chemical damp-proof course
2. Replaster with specialist render
3. Ensure ground levels are correct
4. Improve drainage around property

For Condensation

1. Improve ventilation
2. Consider dehumidification
3. Increase insulation if possible
4. Address lifestyle factors

Why Choose Canary Detect?

We specialise in finding the hidden causes of damp walls:

• Non-invasive methods: No unnecessary wall damage
• Accurate detection: Pinpoint leak locations
• Detailed reports: For insurance and contractors
• No Find, No Fee: Guaranteed results

Get Your Damp Walls Investigated

Don't guess at the cause of your damp walls – get professional diagnosis. What looks like condensation could be a hidden leak costing you money every day.

Contact Canary Detect for leak detection services across Lanzarote.

Request a survey →