The difference between a membrane, cavity flashing and damp proof course (DPC)

When it comes to buildings that have been damaged by water, there are three methods of repair an engineering consultant can use, these are either a membrane, cavity flashing or damp proof course. Not sure what any of these are? Read on to find out!
 
Membrane:
A waterproofing membrane is a thin layer of watertight material that is laid, injected into or sprayed onto a surface to prevent water from passing through.  There are three different types of membranes that can be used, these are sheet, liquid and injectable, which all achieve the same outcome but through different applications.
 
Cavity Flashings:
This type of waterproofing method involves a continuous sheet of waterproofing material that is installed across the gap of a cavity wall. Cavity flashings run along the length of a wall, diverting water out through weep holes, thus keeping the structural integrity of the building intact.
 
Damp Proof Courses:
And finally, Damp Proof Courses. DPCS are a layer of waterproof material in the wall of a building near the ground, to prevent rising damp. DPCS help to prevent excess moisture entering the building which in turn prevents serious structural damage and issue such as wet rot, dry rot, timber decay, rising damp and black mould.
 
And that’s it for solutions to waterproofing issues within your building. So now if an engineer comes to inspect your building in response to water damage within your building you’ll know exactly what they’re talking about!