Hi, I have been told by a civil engineer consultant that this is a really common problem in older houses and that I should learn to live with it, inject the internal walls with a dpc and replaster affected walls. I had my walls injected with a dpc and have had the tiled hearth dug out half way ( I dont know why they didnt dig it all out as the sand is soaking up all the water under the boards when it rains like a sponge and is still making my floor boards damp) Would it be a good idea to dig out the hearth completely and put in a joist to support the boards? I have also heard that a friend of a friend had the same problem and they had the sub floor concreted which completely cured the problem. How would I go about this if there are electric cables and water/gas pipes for the central heating system running under the boards? Can anyone out there give me any suggestions? Also a sump pump has been suggested but what would be the point of this if the water drains away on its own after the rain stops. I would also have to keep taking the carpet up if it breaks down or needs attention.
