Dampness Mapping
Project Name
NDT and other Health Checking activities
of Niva Ananda Vidyalaya, Bramhapur, Kolkata
Client
Niva Ananda Vidyalaya Trustee,
Battala Bazar, Niva Park Phase 3, Bramhapur,
Kolkata 700096, West Bengal India
Structural Health Checking Agency
Flat 10A, Tower 2, Diamond City West,
18 Ho Chi Minh Sarani, Near Behala Bakultala
Kolkata 700061, West Bengal, India
LLP ID: ABZ-8055, MSME ID: UDYAM-WB-18-0036987
July 2023
Table of Contents
Introduction .............................................................................................................................. 2
Methodology............................................................................................................................ 3
Visual Inspection ................................................................................................................... 3
Moisture Measurement ........................................................................................................ 3
Data Collection and Analysis .............................................................................................. 3
Instrument Used .................................................................................................................... 3
Findings ..................................................................................................................................... 5
Visible Signs of Dampness .................................................................................................... 5
Moisture Levels ...................................................................................................................... 7
Potential Causes ................................................................................................................. 10
Recommendations ................................................................................................................ 11
Repairs and Remediation .................................................................................................. 11
Improve Ventilation ............................................................................................................ 11
Drainage and Waterproofing............................................................................................ 11
Maintenance and Monitoring ........................................................................................... 11
Conclusion .............................................................................................................................. 12
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Dampness Mapping
Introduction
The purpose of this report is to present a comprehensive dampness mapping
assessment conducted on two four-storied school buildings of Niva Ananda School
located at Battala Bazar, Niva Park Phase 3, Bramhapur, Kolkata, WB 700096.
Figure 1 Location Map with Block A and B Marked
The assessment aimed to identify, evaluate and document any existing cracks in the
building's structure. This report outlines the methodology, findings and
recommendations resulting from the crack mapping analysis.
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Dampness Mapping
Methodology
The dampness mapping assessment followed a systematic approach involving visual
inspection, moisture measurement, data collection, and analysis. The following steps
were undertaken:
Visual Inspection
A team of professionals conducted a thorough visual inspection of the school
building's interior and exterior surfaces. This inspection aimed to identify visible signs of
dampness, such as water stains, discoloration, peeling paint, Mold growth and damp
Odors.
Areas prone to dampness, such as bathrooms, pantries, laboratories and exterior walls,
were given particular attention.
Moisture Measurement
Moisture levels were measured using appropriate moisture detection equipment, such
as moisture meters or thermal imaging cameras.
Multiple readings were taken at various locations throughout the building to identify
areas with elevated moisture content. Readings were recorded systematically for
accurate analysis.
Data Collection and Analysis
Collected data, including visual observations and moisture measurements, were
analysed to identify patterns and potential causes of dampness.
Factors such as water infiltration, condensation, plumbing leaks, inadequate
ventilation, and building design deficiencies were considered during the analysis.
Instrument Used
We measured dampness of the rooms using Moisture Meter. Screens from
Manufacturer’s document are attached below for reference and understanding the
use of the meter.
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Dampness Mapping
Figure 2 Asian Paints’ 2 in 1 Moisture Meter
Figure 3 Catalogue of the Moisture Meter
Figure 4 Use of Different Keys in the Moisture Meter
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Dampness Mapping
Findings
Based on the dampness mapping assessment, the following findings were observed:
Visible Signs of Dampness
The visual inspection revealed visible signs of dampness in several areas of the building.
These signs included water stains, discoloration, peeling paint, mold growth, musty
odours, and damp patches on walls, ceilings and floors. Dampness was frequently
observed in bathrooms, basements and kitchen areas.
Main roof at 4th floor of Block A has patches where dampness is observed near the
water tank. Also, both the roofs don’t have any coping thus during rain the water is
seeped through those joint along the periphery and caused cracks as shown earlier.
Figure 5 Damped Roof for Improper Alignment and Drainage at Block A
Both the mumty roofs at 5th level are found to have inadequate waterproofing,
insufficient draining and no coping. Thus, it damaged the roof and cracks are
developed on the roof slab also along the periphery where the concrete slab meets
the surrounding brick walls.
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Dampness Mapping
Figure 6 Main Roof and Mumty Roof with no Coping
Figure 7 Improper Drainage and Slope at Mumty Roof
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Dampness Mapping
Moisture Levels
Moisture measurements indicated elevated moisture content in specific locations.
Higher moisture levels were commonly detected in areas prone to water infiltration,
such as around windows, near plumbing fixtures, at the base of exterior walls, and in
areas with poor ventilation. Moisture levels exceeding recommended thresholds were
indicative of potential dampness-related issues.
Figure 8 Dampness Measurement at Site
Figure 9 Left Broken Tiles in Block B Level 2 and Right No Base Course at Block A Level 2
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Dampness Mapping
Figure 10 Water Seepage, Water Logging, Rusted Plumbing Line
It is observed that almost all Toilets blocks has moisture around 85% to even 100% from
the top level of the tiles. It is higher mainly near plumbing inlets and few outlets. Hence
all Toilet Blocks marked as damped as a whole.
Figure 11 Plan of Typical Floor with Room & Grid Markings and Highlighting Toilet Blocks
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NDT and other Health Checking activities of Niva Ananda Vidyalaya, Bramhapur, Kolkata
Dampness Mapping
Also, in the adjacent rooms, namely Room NER and Room SER, high (above 60%) to
very high (above 75%) moisture levels are observed in the walls just opposite to the
Toilet blocks and the adjacent wall.
Figure 12 Typical Damped Area in Northeast Rooms: High (above 60%) in light yellow colour and
Very High (above 75%) in light pink colour
Figure 13 Typical Damped Area in Southeast Rooms: High (above 60%) in light yellow colour and
Very High (above 75%) in light pink colour
While on the other walls of those rooms and walls of other rooms and lobby the
moisture levels are below 50 (even below 40 is most of the places). Sample observation
sheets are attached here for reference.
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Dampness Mapping
Potential Causes
The analysis suggested various potential causes of dampness within the building. These
causes included water leaks from plumbing systems, faulty waterproofing of
basements or roofs, inadequate drainage systems, condensation due to poor
ventilation, and inadequate protection against rainwater ingress through external
walls or windows.
Toilets are main sources of internal damping while roofs are not waterproofed. Mumty
roof in Block B found to have rusted rebars due to seepage.
Figure 14 Rusted Rebar at Mumty Roof
Figure 15 Rusted Rebar at Mumty Roof
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Dampness Mapping
Recommendations
Based on the findings of the dampness mapping assessment, the following
recommendations are proposed:
Repairs and Remediation
Address visible signs of dampness promptly to prevent further damage and the growth
of mold or mildew. Repair leaks in plumbing systems, replace damaged or inadequate
waterproofing, and seal gaps or cracks in walls, windows, and other potential points
of water entry. Some tiles are found broken in toilets and some places the base course
is found missing. Those needs to be repaired.
Improve Ventilation
Enhance ventilation in areas prone to dampness, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and
basements. This can be achieved by installing exhaust fans, improving natural
ventilation, and ensuring adequate air circulation to minimize condensation and
moisture buildup.
Drainage and Waterproofing
Improve the building's drainage system, ensuring efficient water runoff and proper
grading around the foundation. Additionally, consider enhancing waterproofing
measures on exterior walls, roofs and other vulnerable areas to prevent water
infiltration.
Maintenance and Monitoring
Implement a regular maintenance program to identify and address potential
dampness issues promptly. This may include regular inspections, monitoring of moisture
levels in critical areas, and timely repairs to minimize the risk of dampness-related
problems.
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Dampness Mapping
Conclusion
The dampness mapping assessment of the both four-storied concrete school building
identified areas affected by dampness and highlighted potential causes.
Implementing the recommended actions outlined in this report will help mitigate
dampness-related issues, preserve the building's structural integrity, and provide a
healthier and more conducive learning environment for the school community.
It is observed almost all Toilet Blocks needs waterproofing treatment. Toilet blocks
needs deep cleaning to ensure proper and grouting between the floor and wall tiles.
Roofs are not properly waterproofed and developed cracks. Precautions should be
taken to localise the cracks in future. Copings are missing; hence roofs should be
monitored periodically, mainly after rains to ensure water flows out quickly.
Mumty roofs are not waterproofed and developed hair cracks at the top and bottom
surfaces. Mumty roof in Block B found to have rusted rebars due to seepage. These
issues must be addressed properly at the earliest by enlisted / licensed applicator of
reputed brand(s).
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