Looks to be a damp patch on bricks under window

billiepiper14

Hi does this patch under window look like an issue ? If so who should I be calling out to take a look at it please ? No damp under window inside but the bay ceiling ie under the roofing felt was very crumbly when wall paper was stripped off. Any advise appreciated please.

Mr.Generous

I'd lower the outside soil level by 1 brick and make the last 3 or 4 inches a drainage chanel with just gravel down another brick level. That will probably sort it.

daveyjp

If the bay ceiling is damp check the scalloped edge lead flashing, especially at the top where it should be tucked into the brickwork courses.  It may need mortar grubbing out and repointing with mortar or as an alternative an external silicone sealant.

twopenny

Looks like the soil is against the brick.
Is it over the damp membrane?

Agree, dig some away from along the wall and move the items against the corner. Corners shaded from sun and wind will get damp. 

Ceiling, gently strip back to see whats going on and check the flashing.
It's not unusual with time in old houses.
Pretty frontage.

billiepiper14

Thanks so much I’ve only lived here 3 months. I have limited diy skills. I’ve taken down the front wall & removed the surface pebbles in readiness for possibly a dropped kerb and extra parking. Not sure what surface to go for though and wanted to address the potential damp patch before I went further. Thanks again

stuart45

The brickwork looks like some earth was piled up against it previously. See if it dries out in the spring. Not too much of an issue if it's only the external skin.
I'd be more concerned about the ceiling of the bow window getting damp.
How old is the property, and have alterations been made I the front?

billiepiper14

stuart45 said:

The brickwork looks like some earth was piled up against it previously. See if it dries out in the spring. Not too much of an issue if it's only the external skin.
I'd be more concerned about the ceiling of the bow window getting damp.
How old is the property, and have alterations been made I the front?

Will look at paperwork for year built. The porch was added at some point thanks for replying

stuart45

If the bow window was retro fitted in place of a standard window, a cavity tray might not have been fitted which could allow moisture running down inside the cavity on to the bow ceiling.

billiepiper14

stuart45 said:

If the bow window was retro fitted in place of a standard window, a cavity tray might not have been fitted which could allow moisture running down inside the cavity on to the bow ceiling.

Thankyou for your reply. All houses on street have a bay by looks of it. I will double check when I walk passed them

twopenny

Good idea. Previous occupants will have dealt with the same stuff. They are a mine of information in bits which you have to put together   

Been here 4yrs and still picking up info and ideas.