Damp Patches on Brick Wall
Damp, dark, or stained areas appearing on an exterior brick wall, especially after rain.
What Is Causing This?
- 1Failed pointing allowing rain to penetrate
- 2Blocked cavity or rubble bridging the cavity
- 3Ground levels above the damp proof course
How Urgent Is This?
This should be fixed in the coming weeks. Leaving it may allow the problem to worsen and cost more to repair.
What Needs to Be Done
A bricklayer will repoint the affected area, check for and clear cavity obstructions, and ensure ground levels are correct. A damp specialist may be needed for DPC issues.
How Much Will It Cost?
National average estimate
Labour: £608 – £1,617 | Materials: £402 – £1,205
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Prices are estimates based on typical UK rates. Actual costs depend on the specific issue, accessibility, and your location. All quotes from tradespeople on Tradesfolk are completely free.
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Ask a QuestionPlanning Permission Guidance
Some fixes for this problem may require planning permission or building regulations approval. Check if your project needs permission:
How to Prevent This
Keep pointing in good repair. Ensure ground levels stay 150mm below the DPC. Clear leaves and debris from the base of walls.
Related Problems
Damp patches appearing on inside walls, particularly after rain, often with a musty smell.
Mortar joints that are cracking, falling out, or crumbling away, leaving the brickwork exposed.
Damp and discolouration on ground floor walls, typically up to about one metre from the floor, with a tide mark.
Other Bricklayer Problems
Bricks that are flaking, crumbling, or breaking apart on the face, particularly on exposed walls.
Individual bricks with cracks running through them, sometimes in a pattern across multiple bricks.
Mortar joints that are cracking, falling out, or crumbling away, leaving the brickwork exposed.
A brick wall that has tilted or is leaning away from its original vertical position.