Freezteq International Ltd: Worldwide solution provider to rising damp

Home » Company Reviews » Freezteq International Ltd: Worldwide solution provider to rising damp

Freezteq® has been providing a solution to rising damp since 1965. Highly diverse, Freezteq has been used to eradicate rising damp in a multitude of buildings worldwide, with repeated success.

Freezteq comprises of a pre-packed solution, containing siliconates, which are frozen before use. Once holes have been drilled into the mortar line of the wall, the frozen pre-packs or ‘ice sticks’, are inserted directly into the mortar joints following the detailed instructions provided. Insertion into the mortar joints is the most direct method of tackling the damp head-on, as they are the major pathways for any rising damp.

A non-pressurised system ensures that Freezteq is applied in a precise manner, not taking the path of least resistance.

Differentiation from the many chemical DPCs that are available on the current market comes from the product’s unique frozen application, its rich history and the focus that Freezteq has; one product for over 50 years with continuous success.

Advantages of Freezteq

  • Extremely Simple – Although you can employ a contractor to complete a Freezteq damp-proof course, the Freezteq system is suitable for use by anyone with a competent knowledge of DIY. The product in frozen form is easily handled wearing the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and application is an easy process.
  •  No Specialist Equipment – The only tools required are a hammer drill, a 22mm drill bit, (both of which can be hired) approved PPE, sufficient Freezteq packs, and the means to freeze the packs for a minimum of 48 hours.
  • Effective – Technically, diffusion is the most direct method for the installation of chemical damp courses. Capillary action ensures that the released siliconates follow the natural pathways of the rising damp itself, ensuring that the damp course is deposited exactly where it can be most effective.
  • Efficient – The Freezteq ice sticks can be inserted directly into the mortar joints, which are the major pathways for any rising damp. This assures correct dosage at all points. Diffusion also prevents the collection of solution in large, unsuspected cavities and ensures that the damp-proofing is as efficient as possible.
  • Versatile – Freezteq can be used to treat any thickness of wall by simply inserting less or more of the frozen ice sticks, as required. Freezteq can also be used to treat all types of masonry.
  • Internal or External Treatment – Walls can be treated from either side, depending on the project requirements, allowing for flexibility for contractor and customer.
  • Non-Flammable and Odourless – No flammable liquids are involved; the Freezteq solution is totally free of fire hazard, whilst also benefiting from being odourless.

What is Rising Damp?

Rising damp is a form of structural dampness that becomes evident when moisture rises up through walls, floors and masonry. This moisture travels through the porous structure of a building using capillary action. Defined as the movement of water within the spaces of a porous material, capillary action occurs through forces of adhesion, cohesion, and surface tension.

The moisture will reach a certain height, at which point gravity will allow it to travel no further. This is typically around 1.2m, but salt deposits and other such by-products of damp may be present higher than this. Rising damp often occurs as a result of a damp-proof course that has become ineffective due to age or poor installation. It can also occur in buildings that have been constructed with no prior DPC.

Rising damp can normally be identified visually with a horizontal ‘tide mark’ of damp appearing above skirting boards. In concurrence with this, peeling wallpaper and salt deposits are often present in areas that experience rising damp.

Problems Associated with Rising Damp

  • The moisture content of the structure can reach a point at which bacteria and organisms may grow, possibly leading to an unhealthy environment.
  • In very damp conditions, external mortar may crumble, as well as steel and iron elements of the building potentially corroding and failing: both of which may pose a significant structural issue.
  • Damp conditions within a wall caused by rising damp, particularly in conjunction with internal moisture, allow the growth of moulds both on the surface and within porous or fibrous materials. As well as this being aesthetically undesirable, it can also pose a health hazard.
  • Exposure to microbial contaminants caused by rising damp is clinically associated with respiratory issues, allergies, asthma and immunological reactions.

Freezteq International Limited are looking for Distributors in Africa.