Chemical Damp-Proofing

Injection treatment that creates a horizontal moisture barrier in masonry walls by filling pores with water-resistant chemicals. Used to remediate rising damp in older buildings lacking original damp-proof courses, chemical damp-proofing involves drilling holes at regular intervals along the base of walls and injecting silicone-based or resin solutions that cure to block capillary action. In Ontario, this technique addresses moisture wicking up from foundations in historic homes built before modern damp-proof membranes became standard. Effectiveness depends on proper injection depth, spacing, and allowing adequate drying time before replastering. Chemical damp-proofing is less disruptive than physical damp-proof course insertion but requires addressing the moisture source and may need complementary drainage improvements.