Got some internal damp on the other side of an external wall, which is under the staircase leading to the basement flat. We have a hunch that this area could be contributing to the damp and thus wish to weatherproof it.
Wall:
We were thinking about performing a good cleanup / possible lime rendering (the building dates back to 1880) or even just painting over with masonry paint, without any rendering, if that would be sufficient? Not sure whats the best method of keeping moisture out and if lime rendering would make a big difference... Prefer not to use cement on the wall.
Ground:
Although the staircase is above the exposed dirt and doesn't get much direct rainwater, we were thinking about pouring concrete over the exposed dirt and sloping the concrete surface away from the wall. Yet, not sure if this is the best way of weatherproofing the area...would stone tiles or even just gravel be a better option, perhaps even doing nothing at all?
Appreciate any perspectives. Thank you.
