BUILDING TIPS

Understanding Dampness in Houses in Uganda Today. 

A Practical Guide by Engr Remy Ssekidde of Qhisa Construction

Dampness is one of the most common problems affecting houses in Uganda today. Many homeowners are surprised to see wet walls, mold, peeling paint, and a musty smell—sometimes even in newly constructed buildings.

At Qhisa Construction, we believe the first step to solving dampness is understanding why it happens, especially in our local climate and construction practices.

1. What Is Dampness?

Dampness is the unwanted presence of moisture in a building. It can affect:

Walls

Floors

Roofs

Foundations

Ceilings

If not treated early, dampness can:

Weaken building structures

Cause health problems (asthma, allergies, respiratory infections)

Damage paint, plaster, and finishes

Reduce property value

2. Why Damwpness Is Increasing in Uganda Today

a) Increased Rainfall & Climate Changes

Uganda is experiencing:

Longer rainy seasons

Heavy downpours in short periods

This puts pressure on:

Foundations

Roof drainage

External walls

Poorly protected buildings easily absorb moisture.

b) Poor Foundation Protection

Many houses lack:

Damp Proof Courses (DPC)

Proper foundation waterproofing

When the soil becomes wet, moisture rises up through walls by capillary action—this is called rising damp.

c) Low-Quality or Incorrect Materials

Common problems include:

Using highly absorbent blocks

Poor-quality sand with organic matter

Fake or diluted cement

Thin plaster coats

These materials absorb and retain water, especially during rainy seasons.

d) Poor Construction Practices

Dampness often results from:

No damp-proof membranes

Incorrect roof slopes

Cracked walls due to poor curing

Improper joint sealing

Even good materials fail if workmanship is poor.

e) Poor Drainage Around Buildings

Water pooling near foundations is a major cause of dampness. This is common when:

Houses are built on flat land without drainage channels

No apron concrete is provided

Gutters discharge water near the wall

f) Poor Ventilation

Modern houses are often tightly sealed, causing:

Trapped moisture indoors

Condensation on walls and ceilings

Bathrooms, kitchens, and bedrooms need proper airflow.

3. Common Types of Dampness in Ugandan Houses

1. Rising Damp

Moisture rises from the ground

Seen as wet patches at the bottom of walls

Common in houses without DPC

2. Penetrating Damp

Water enters through walls

Caused by cracks, porous blocks, or poor plaster

3. Roof Leakage Damp

Faulty roofing sheets

Poor flashing

Blocked gutters

4. Condensation Damp

Caused by poor ventilation

Common in bathrooms and kitchens

4. Signs of Dampness to Look Out For

Peeling or bubbling paint

White salt deposits on walls (efflorescence)

Black mold or green algae

Musty smell

Cracked plaster

Wet floors

5. How Qhisa Construction Prevents Dampness

At Qhisa Construction, we apply professional dampness control measures:

✅ Proper Site Assessment

Soil testing

Drainage planning

✅ Quality Foundation Work

Damp Proof Courses

Waterproof membranes

Raised foundations where necessary

✅ Correct Material Selection

High-quality cement and sand

Proper block curing

Approved waterproof additives

✅ Professional Workmanship

Correct plaster thickness

Controlled curing

Crack prevention methods

✅ Proper Drainage & Roofing

Apron concrete around buildings

Correct roof slopes

Proper gutter installation

✅ Adequate Ventilation

Proper window positioning

Vent blocks in critical areas

6. What Homeowners Should Do

Engage qualified professionals

Avoid shortcuts in construction

Inspect damp-proofing during construction

Maintain roofs and gutters

Address small cracks early

7. Conclusion

Dampness is not just a cosmetic problem—it is a structural and health risk. In Uganda’s climate, preventing dampness requires proper planning, correct materials, and skilled workmanship.

At Qhisa Construction, we build homes that stand strong against moisture, weather, and time.

📞 Contact Qhisa Construction today for professional advice, inspections, and durable construction solutions...