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Install a damp-proof membrane.
Floor DPM under screed or as an over-floor membrane — for ground-floor damp solutions.
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Costs, timelines, pitfalls and the right questions to ask before any damp proofer starts on damp Proof Membrane Floor.
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Top tips
Hiring a damp proofer, without the regret.
Four moves that separate a smooth job from a nightmare.
DPM laid on damp concrete
Liquid epoxy on wet concrete fails to bond and lifts. Always test moisture first.
Plastic DPM joints not taped
Air gaps at overlaps let moisture through. Always use proper jointing tape.
Skipping DPM under timber floor
Wet concrete pushes moisture into wood. Cup or warp within months. Always specify DPM.
Wrong DPM thickness
1000 gauge is sub-standard. Always 1200 gauge minimum.
Costs & timeline
Know what it costs. Know when it ends.
Indicative UK ranges and what affects price.
Cost range
By job type
Inc. VAT · 2026
Source: NMT quotes
Source: NMT quotes
1200 gauge plastic DPM per m²Material only
£3–£10/m²
Liquid epoxy DPM per m²Watco, Ardex P82
£15–£40/m²
Install labour plastic DPM per m²Lay and tape
£5–£15/m²
Install labour liquid DPM per m²Two coats
£10–£25/m²
Moisture test (CM or hygrometer)Before specifying
£50–£200
Single room DPM install15–20 m²
£200–£800
!
Quote spread is typically ± 18% — always get 3 quotes.
At a glance
Infographic · VideoThe Damp Proofer briefing.
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Damp Proofer quick-view
Video guide
Damp Proofer explained
Damp proof membranes (DPM) stop moisture rising through concrete floors. Most modern UK floors have one; pre-1960s often don't. Expect to pay £20–£60 per m² for UK floor DPM installation, depending on type.
What Does the Work Involve?
Two main types. Plastic sheet DPM (1200 gauge Visqueen): laid over concrete with overlap at joints, taped with proper jointing tape. Liquid epoxy DPM (Watco, Ardex P82): painted directly onto concrete in two coats. Both block moisture rise. New floor finish then laid over DPM.
Typical Costs
| Item | Low (£) | High (£) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1200 gauge plastic DPM per m² | 3 | 10 | Material only |
| Liquid epoxy DPM per m² | 15 | 40 | Watco, Ardex P82 |
| Install labour plastic DPM per m² | 5 | 15 | Lay and tape |
| Install labour liquid DPM per m² | 10 | 25 | Two coats |
| Moisture test (CM or hygrometer) | 50 | 200 | Before specifying |
| Single room DPM install | 200 | 800 | 15–20 m² |
| Whole-house ground floor DPM | 1,500 | 5,500 | 60–80 m² |
How Long Does It Take?
Plastic DPM: half a day. Liquid epoxy: 1–2 days plus 24 hours cure between coats. Total project: 2–3 days before floor finish goes down.
DIY or Professional?
DIY-able for plastic DPM with care. Liquid epoxy needs careful application — most homeowners use professional. Critical: moisture must be verified before applying any DPM.
Choosing the Right Tradesperson
Flooring fitter or specialist contractor. Brands: Watco Liquid DPM, Ardex P82, Sika Sikaflex. Confirm moisture testing included in scope.
UK Regulations
Building Regs Part C (moisture control) for new floors. Floor finishes manufacturer warranties usually require DPM under wood or vinyl over concrete.
Common Problems
- DPM laid on damp concrete: Liquid epoxy on wet concrete fails to bond and lifts. Always test moisture first.
- Plastic DPM joints not taped: Air gaps at overlaps let moisture through. Always use proper jointing tape.
- Skipping DPM under timber floor: Wet concrete pushes moisture into wood. Cup or warp within months. Always specify DPM.
- Wrong DPM thickness: 1000 gauge is sub-standard. Always 1200 gauge minimum.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a DPM?
Yes — under wood, laminate, vinyl, LVT on a concrete floor. Plastic DPM or liquid epoxy. Failure to install causes floor finish failure within months.
How do I know if my concrete has moisture issues?
Test with hygrometer (RH below 75%) or CM meter (below 3%). Visible damp patches indicate definite issues. Always test before laying floor finish.
Plastic sheet or liquid epoxy DPM?
Plastic: cheaper, easy install, taped joints. Liquid epoxy: continuous seal, better in challenging spaces. Liquid is the premium option.
Can I lay laminate over old damp concrete?
Yes — apply liquid DPM first to block moisture. Wood-flooring manufacturers void warranties on damp concrete without DPM.
Does DPM affect heat loss?
Slight — DPM acts as a vapor barrier. Modern installations combine DPM with PIR insulation under floor for thermal benefit.
Will DPM crack over time?
Quality plastic sheet 1200 gauge: 50+ years. Liquid epoxy: 30+ years. Both effectively permanent if floor finish above unchanged.
This guide was written with AI assistance and is intended for general information only. Prices are estimates based on UK averages and may vary by region. Always get at least three quotes and consult a qualified professional before starting any work.
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