Single brick walls All manner of questions and solutions to problems and issues surrounding the subject of brickwork, blockwork and stonework

[bigfish69]

Hi, ive got a brick workshop in my garden that i want to convert into my own pub but the walls are only single brick so the place is cold and damp.I intend to put a new concrete floor down with a membrane under but i really dont want to go to the expense of blocking a new internal wall in the building so does anyone have any suggestions as to how i can prevent the damp. Is a damp proof paint any good? I am going to install a woodburner in the pub, would this cause problems? Any help would be most appreciated. Many thanks

[Perry525]

Hi, its understandable that its cold and damp with only a single brick wall between you and the outside.
However, it you stop and think, you will realize that millions of homes that have cavity walls and no cavity insulation are in the same situation. (But don't know it)
The solution is quite simple, stick 4 inch polystyrene to the walls with the stuff they use to stick plasterboard. Nail the same to the ceiling and you will have an uncomfortably warm room.

As polystyrene gets damaged rather easily give it a coat of plaster if you wish, this will make the room a bit cooler.
Perry

[sggraham]

hi can i plaster directly to polystyrene?

[the specialist]

Hi,

You cant plaster direct to polystyrene. Damp proof paint wont really do much good in this application

I recommend 3X2 stud wall just off the inner wall (use treated timber). Fill with 50mm thick kingspan or ecotherm which is cheaper but has same insulation value. Cover with polythene vapour barrier. 13mm plaster board and skim. Treat outside walls with resin based waterproofer which will last up to 10 years. You will find it to be very cosy.

Aidan

[TheDoctor5]

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