Damp-Proof Course (DPC)

Category: infrastructure

A horizontal waterproof layer installed near the base of a wall to block groundwater from wicking upward.

Masonry materials are naturally porous and function like a hard sponge. Capillary action can draw groundwater straight up through a stone or block foundation, ruining interior plaster. A DPC layer forms a solid barrier above the soil line, blocking this upward migration.

Common Examples

• The civil code requires a heavy bituminous damp-proof course layer situated slightly above the exterior grade line to block wicking water.
• Missing or punctured DPC barriers are the leading cause of "rising damp" phenomena across historic brick warehouse renovations.