Rising Damp: Causes, Effects, and Treatment with Krystol Mortar Admixture (KMA)

Introduction

Rising damp is one of the most persistent waterproofing challenges in buildings. It occurs when moisture from the ground seeps upward through porous building materials like brick, concrete, and mortar. If left untreated, rising damp can cause structural damage, mold growth, and unhealthy indoor environments.

Traditional waterproofing methods, such as surface coatings and external barriers, often fail over time. However, Krystol Mortar Admixture (KMA) from Kryton offers a permanent, self-healing solution for treating and preventing rising damp.

In this blog, we’ll explore:

✅ What rising damp is and how it occurs.

✅ The effects of rising damp on buildings.

✅ How Kryton’s Krystol Mortar Admixture (KMA) provides a long-term waterproofing solution.

What is Rising Damp?

Rising damp is the capillary movement of groundwater through porous masonry materials. Similar to how a sponge absorbs water, building materials like bricks and mortar draw moisture from the soil upward, leading to damp walls and structural deterioration.

Causes of Rising Damp

Several factors contribute to rising damp in buildings:

🔹 Absence or Failure of a Damp Proof Course (DPC) – Older buildings may lack a proper DPC, or existing barriers may deteriorate over time.

🔹 Porous Building Materials – Cement, mortar, and bricks absorb moisture due to their microscopic pores.

🔹 High Water Table – In areas with high groundwater levels, moisture continuously rises into structures.

🔹 Poor Drainage Around Foundations – Water pooling around the building increases the risk of rising damp.

What Rising Damp looks like

Effects of Rising Damp

Rising damp isn’t just an aesthetic issue—it can weaken the structure of a building and create health hazards.

🔴 Structural Damage: Moisture weakens walls, causing plaster to crack, peel, or crumble.

🔴 Salt Efflorescence: White salt deposits appear on walls as moisture evaporates.

🔴 Mold and Mildew Growth: Damp conditions promote fungal growth, leading to musty odors and respiratory issues.

🔴 Heat Loss & Higher Energy Bills: Moist walls have reduced insulation, making buildings colder in winter and increasing heating costs.

👉 The best way to protect your home from rising damp is by using an integral waterproofing solution like Kryton’s KMA!

Treatment of Rising Damp with Krystol Mortar Admixture (KMA)

What is Krystol Mortar Admixture (KMA)?

KMA is a crystalline waterproofing admixture that is added directly to mortar or plaster during construction. Unlike traditional waterproofing coatings, KMA becomes a permanent part of the structure, providing self-sealing, long-lasting protection against rising damp.

KMA simplifies installation by removing the need for surface applied sealers and is incorporated easily into existing masonry and stucco products and application processes. KMA provides superior waterproofing performance that lowers building maintenance and repair costs.

How Does KMA Work?

Crystalline Technology: KMA reacts with water and cement particles to form needle-like crystals inside the mortar.
Blocks Water Pathways: These crystals fill capillary pores and micro-cracks, preventing moisture from rising.
Self-Healing Ability: If cracks form later, moisture reactivates the crystals, sealing new gaps automatically.
Durable & Permanent: Unlike waterproofing paints and membranes, KMA never peels, cracks, or wears off.

How to Use Krystol Mortar Admixture for Rising Damp Treatment

1. Mix KMA into Mortar

✅ Dosage: Add 2% KMA by weight of cement into the mortar mix.

✅ Ensure proper mixing for even distribution of waterproofing properties.

2. Apply KMA-Modified Mortar to Affected Areas

✅ For New Construction: Use KMA-enhanced mortar for bricklaying and plastering to prevent rising damp.

✅ For Existing Walls: Remove damaged plaster and apply a new KMA-modified waterproofing layer.

3. Improve Drainage & Groundwater Control

✅ Install French drains or a perimeter drainage system to redirect water away from foundations.

✅ Ensure proper site grading to prevent water accumulation near walls.

Why Choose KMA Over Traditional Waterproofing Methods?

Feature	Krystol Mortar Admixture (KMA)	Traditional Waterproofing (Coatings & Membranes)
Durability	Permanent, becomes part of the structure	Can degrade, peel, or crack over time
Self-Healing	Reactivates crystals to seal cracks	No self-repairing ability
Application	Mixed into mortar, no extra labor	Requires surface preparation & multiple layers
Resistance	Works against hydrostatic pressure	May fail under high-pressure moisture

Final Thoughts: Protect Your Home with Kryton KMA

Rising damp is a serious issue that can lead to expensive repairs and health hazards. Kryton’s Krystol Mortar Admixture (KMA) is a permanent, self-healing waterproofing solution that protects your home from moisture damage.