Proposing a new type of DPC to control moisture movements in brick walls

Abstract

This paper reviews several traditional and modern damp-proof courses (DPCs) techniques that have been used worldwide and show the limitation(s) of each technique. It also presents a new waterproofing technique employing the principles of capillary breaking layers (CBLs) used widely in earth structures. The paper presents the results of a study on rising damp based upon a practical one-year-long tests. The short and the long term hygrothermal behavior of the proposed technique was also investigated numerically using WUFI simulation program. It has been found that a capillary breaking layer can be successfully utilized to create a capillary barrier that is capable of blocking moisture rise in a brick wall and enhancing wall breathability at the level of treatment.