Photo: Pixabay

How do you damp proof a brick shed?

Use a liquid damp-proof membrane or tanking slurry, which if applied correctly would prevent damp from reaching the internal side of the concrete and brick.

diy.stackexchange.com - Damp proofing a single-skin outbuilding for batten & insulation

What is the punishment for wild camping UK?

The punishment for wild camping in the uk is to simply be asked to move. That is generally as far as the situation goes. It is extremely rare for...

Last updated Jan 17, 2019

Is it profitable to build a granny flat?

Generally, property values increase over time so you instantly increase the value of your property portfolio by building a granny flat on your...

Last updated Nov 18, 2019

Promotion

I have a small outbuilding (~2m x 4.5m) which I currently use for storing tools and my bicycle. It's a semi-detached single-skin construction with a concrete roof, concrete floor and single-skin brick for the walls. The roof is currently leaking, which means the inside is currently quite humid, but I intend on getting this felted over once the current Covid-19 restrictions have been lifted in the UK. As a result of this humidity, some of my tools have gone rusty and some of my wood scraps have gone mouldy. Later on this year once the roof is fixed I intend to try and convert this space into a small workshop for woodwork and electronics. As part of this, I intend on battening the walls and using 25mm insulation board (with aluminium covering, likely Kingspan TP10), trying to insulate as best as I can while remaining mindful that I don't have much space to play with. I'm confident enough to carry all the woodwork, including replacing the door frame, but I'm not sure how I should go about damp-proofing the interior to protect the battens and plasterboard. Other than the leaky roof I don't believe there is a damp problem elsewhere, the paint I applied the to the bricks two years ago still seems in good condition and not mouldy or flaky. Ventilation isn't an issue as there is a window that I usually leave partially open on night-vent.

To my knowledge my options are to either:

Use a liquid damp-proof membrane or tanking slurry, which if applied correctly would prevent damp from reaching the internal side of the concrete and brick

or

Apply a damp proof membrane along the floor and walls. However this still has the potential of allowing water to pool between the membrane and the brick/concrete.

What would be the best way for a DIY'er like myself, taking into account cost and ease of application?

Here's a proposed layout, showing the issue with the battens when damp proofing is not used.

What can I seed in March?

There are number of vegetables that you can start seeding indoors (or in a greenhouse) in March, including brussels sprouts, cauliflower, spinach,...

Last updated Jan 6, 2020

How much money can a woodworker make?

Most handmade woodworking businesses make $1,500 to $2,000 per month selling exterior and interior wood products, with a 60-70 percent profit margin.

Last updated Nov 20, 2018

These are the Best Shed Plans!

Comprehensive and Intuitive to follow. Build That Shed!

Learn More »

Promotion

Do possums dig under sheds?

crittercontrol.com - Opossum Under Your House, Deck, or Shed - Critter Control

How Do I Remove Opossums from Under My Home?

Unwelcome Guests

Finding opossums under the house is becoming more common as the pests adapt to the loss of their natural habitat. These animals eat almost anything and reproduce quickly, making their presence unwanted around homes.

Problem Areas

Homeowners who want to protect their property should be on the lookout for opossums. Under sheds and decks, the pests build nests where they take shelter and raise their young. They prefer these enclosed spaces because they're safe from predators and harsh weather. Once these burrows are established, it can be hard to discourage the pests. This is unfortunate given the host of problems they cause. Infestations bring animal waste and parasites close to home. Additionally, opossums under decks and sheds can carry leptospirosis and salmonellosis.

Parasites and Infection

When pet food and water dishes are left outdoors, an opossum can contaminate them with Equine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis, or EPM. These pests also carry a large number of ticks and fleas, which can be spread to dogs or cats.

Exclusion from Denning Sites

Fences are sometimes used to prevent opossums from entering a property. Around the home, hardware cloth can secure entry points. Additionally, keeping problem areas well-lit at night may scare the pests away. When all else fails, call Critter Control for the efficient removal of opossums from under sheds, decks, or houses.

Learn more about Opossum Removal.

What happens if potting soil freezes?

Most likely, containers are a solid material that could crack when the temperatures freeze and the soil expands. It is also recommended to let the...

Last updated Feb 5, 2019

Do solar panels stop working if they get too hot?

Although solar panels use sunlight to produce energy, they do not require heat in any way. In fact, solar panels may run about 10 to 25 percent...

Last updated Jun 12, 2021

Promotion

What is the best way to heat a shed?

If you want to heat your shed, you can add insulation, bring in different types of heaters, and/or bring in different kinds of stoves. The best way...

Last updated Sep 26, 2022

Are shed plans easy to follow?

These are! They guide you every step of the way to complete your dream shed.

Learn More »

Promotion

How do you maintain a plastic shed?

We find either a bucket of warm water containing light detergent or warm water inclusive of a splash of washing up liquid plus a couple of cups of...

Last updated Sep 25, 2022