Damp-proofing Solutions for Barn Conversion Projects
Damp is a common problem in barn conversion projects for two major
reasons:
- Because barns were originally designed for agricultural use,
little attention was usually paid to providing protection against damp
during their construction.
- Salt contamination is often a problem in barn floors and walls,
particularly where barns have previously been used to house animals.
These salts are often hygroscopic or deliquescent which means that they
attract moisture from the atmosphere.
Typically, barns are constructed using a wide range of materials and
techniques including cob, brick, and various types of stone. For this
reason, it is difficult to suggest specific damp-proofing solutions that
will be applicable to all barn conversion projects. Although most of the
damp-proofing solutions that we offer can be used in barn conversion
projects, our Oldroyd range of cavity drainage membranes offers our most
popular solution for a number of reasons:
- Can be used on a wide range of substrates and construction types
- Can be used on salt-contaminated walls and floors
- Can be removed with minimal damage to the underlying substrate
- Allow the underlying substrate to breathe
Barn Walls
Oldroyd Xp is a popular choice for barn walls as it is designed to accept
a plaster finish and can follow the natural contours of the barn walls.
Where walls are to be drylined, Oldroyd Xv Clear has the advantage of
requiring fewer fixing plugs per square metre - which minimises damage
to the underlying substrate on heritage projects.
Barn Floors
Oldroyd Xv Black and Oldroyd Xv20 are frequently specified over barn
floors. Both products can offer protection against radon and other
ground contaminants as well as damp.
Technical Support
Our technical department can be contacted on 01403 210204 and will be happy to discuss damp-proofing requirements for specific barn conversion projects.
The following barn conversion case study can be found in our case studies section.
Safeguard currently offer the following RIBA-Approved CPD Seminars free-of-charge to architects and specifiers on the UK mainland:
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Barn Walls 
