Are those bricks still okay or would you replace this? And is there even a DPC on this?

[Matt723]

Hi All

Plinth at the bottom of the driveway was removed as part of repointing.

The bricks under it look damaged but the pointing guys did not mention replacing yet.

Additionnally I don't know where the damp proof course is, it seems there is a dark line under the air Rick's which could be slate but it likely crumbled by now. Also it seems the driveway was concreted and in a slope away front the house which means the ground is likely higher than it used to be.

Not aware of damp issue been in the house for a year.

Where to go from there with those bricks and DPC (or lack of it)?

Thanks!

 

[Matt723]

Any view on this? Would it be better to leave as is or ...

1. Do these bricks need replacing?

2. would it be better to lower the ground so that the clearance between the dark tar line (acting as DPC I supposed) is greater than the current ~5cm?

3. Is the rendered plinth coming above the bricks and bridging above the DPC an issue or is this also happening on other houses?

4. Would it be better to have gravel than concrete coming against the building?

Thanks a ton

 

[Koolpc]

If that is the dpc then yes, the ground level should be lower.

As for the bricks, one option would be to get it rendered but without bridging the damp proof course.

 

[Ivor Windybottom]

If you're going to replace the driveway then the same height but with 100mm of 20mm gravel at the edge would be better.

I wouldn't try sawing off the edge of it, it may be holding it up and could collapse if you do.

That last photo shows that it's damp below the DPC and dry above, so it appears to be working.

If it's OK as a driveway and you don't have damp issues then just leave it alone. Some sort of waterproof render may be needed. It definitely needs covering with something, it's not pretty.

Replacing the entire base of your house just for cosmetic reasons sounds like a massive sledgehammer to crack a tiny walnut.

 

[Matt723]

Thank you both.

Why would it be better to have 100mm wide of gravel between the brick and the concrete?

Would this need a French drain going to the inspection chamber?