What is BS 8215 - Damp-proof courses in masonry construction about?
BS 8215 contains recommendations for the selection, design, and installation of damp-proof courses (DPCs) in both solid and cavity masonry constructions.
Note 1: BS 8215 does not cover the waterproofing of underground structures, such as basements, where water is under hydrostatic pressure (see BS 8102).
Note 2: BS 8215 does not deal with the installation of chemical DPCs (see BS 6576) nor with the control of condensation (see BS 5250) nor with the surface treatment of masonry with water repellents (see BS 6477).
Who is BS 8215 - Damp-proof courses in masonry construction for?
BS 8215 on damp-proof courses in masonry construction is useful for:
- Construction industries
- Civil engineers
- Contractors
- Builders
- Manufacturers and suppliers of masonry equipment
- Testers of masonry
- Designers
Why should you use BS 8215 - Damp-proof courses in masonry construction?
Water is the prime cause of deterioration in building materials and constructions and the presence of moisture encourages the growth of mould which is injurious to health.
BS 8215 specifies the design of damp-proof courses (DPCs) with flashings and damp-proof membranes to ensure a continuous barrier. Not only does it form a barrier to the passage of water but it should also deflect such water to the exterior of the building where it can safely drain away. DPCs should be installed with care. BS 8215 includes a plane of the weakness of a DPC in masonry construction that materially affects overall structural performance by introducing a plane of weakness. BS 8215 assists you with the stability of the structure in relation to the loads imposed upon it by the weight of the construction and by external forces such as wind pressures.
Overall, BS 8215 guides the design and installation of damp-proof courses in masonry constructions this will help you to prevent moisture or water from passing from one part of a construction to another.
