Dampness
Dampness is the seepage of water through the members of the building. There is very little difference between leakage and dampness. If the water comes out of the slab of the bathroom/toilet, it is leakage and if the presence of the water is observed on external walls of the building directly exposed to rains and floors, then this percolation is dampness.
Damp-proof course in plinth
Foundation masonry is always in contact with the sub-soil, which sometimes may contain water.
This sub-soil water tries to enter the building through the walls/floors.
Due to capillary action, this sub-soil water sometimes rises into the walls of buildings against the gravity and indicates dampness.
Generally, foundation masonry is done with U.C.R. Masonry and at the plinth level, damp-proof course (D.P.C.) is provided to prevent capillary water of the sub-soil water.
The rich cement concrete, generally of M20 grade with water-proofing compound added to it, can be used as D.P.C. in buildings.
Tar is also applied below this D.P.C. to prevent the entry of capillary action.
Above the D.P.C. regular masonry for super structure is done.
