Bungalow extended 4 yrs ago, purpose built chimney for wood burner.
Fire place built with old bricks & stone, and hearth with old bricks &
400 yr old stone flags. Inglenook style,
Back of hearth along wall edge is damp. No signs of rising damp, just a strong smell after heavy rain. ( & damp meter reading)
Looking at pics when place was built we noticed the damp proof sheet in the hearth area in pieces, which left the corners with a small triangle uncovered before top floor laid.
We are hoping to sort this problem out without having to rip the lot out.
Apart from cost it will be a right mess.
Can we use a water sealant of some sort on the old bricks & stone flags,
and mortar joints, giving it a good soaking .
Any ideas most welcome.
The chimney is sound, has been checked over.
Many thanks in advance
Jo.
Fire place built with old bricks & stone, and hearth with old bricks &
400 yr old stone flags. Inglenook style,
Back of hearth along wall edge is damp. No signs of rising damp, just a strong smell after heavy rain. ( & damp meter reading)
Looking at pics when place was built we noticed the damp proof sheet in the hearth area in pieces, which left the corners with a small triangle uncovered before top floor laid.
We are hoping to sort this problem out without having to rip the lot out.
Apart from cost it will be a right mess.
Can we use a water sealant of some sort on the old bricks & stone flags,
and mortar joints, giving it a good soaking .
Any ideas most welcome.
The chimney is sound, has been checked over.
Many thanks in advance
Jo.
