How to Install LECTROS Osmotic DPC Products

Installation overview — LECTROS Osmotic DPC (illustration only)

1. What is an Osmotic DPC?

LECTROS Osmotic DPC systems use low-voltage, direct current to counteract rising damp in masonry. Anodes and cathodes are installed within or along a selected mortar bed, and a control unit applies a carefully regulated current that encourages moisture to migrate back down toward the ground, helping to protect finishes and reduce salt contamination.

2. When to Use LECTROS

• Confirmed or strongly suspected rising damp in solid-wall or cavity-wall construction.
• Where a physical DPC is absent, bridged, or failed and chemical injection is not preferred.
• Retrofit and selected new-build scenarios requiring ongoing, serviceable control of moisture movement.

Note: Always confirm diagnosis (e.g., rising damp vs. condensation or penetrating damp) before specifying any DPC method.

3. System Components (typical)

• Anodes/Conductor: Corrosion-resistant anode elements (e.g., wire/rods/strip) installed in or along a mortar bed.
• Cathode/Return Path: Complementary electrodes to complete the circuit within the structure.
• Control Unit: Low-voltage power supply with adjustable/current-limited output and status indication.
• Accessories: Fixings, connectors, insulated cable, protective clips/ducts, plugs, sealing materials.

4. Safety & Compliance

• Electrical: Supply, connections and testing must be undertaken by a competent, qualified person.
• Building regs: Observe relevant regulations for works to walls, services and damp-proofing alterations.
• PPE & RAMS: Use appropriate PPE; plan drilling/cabling routes to avoid concealed services.

5. Preparation

1. Survey & set-out: Identify the target mortar course (usually near skirting height on internal walls). Plan continuous runs around the perimeter where practicable.
2. Check for defects: Address obvious water ingress (leaks, gutters, pointing) before DPC works.
3. Services: Locate electrical, gas and water services. Mark safe drilling zones.
4. Surface condition: Remove loose plaster/render at installation height if required to access the mortar bed.

6. Drilling & Electrode Installation (illustration only)

1. Mark holes: Set out regular spacing along the chosen mortar joint per system guidance.
2. Drill: Drill to the specified diameter/depth following the manufacturer’s data.
3. Insert anodes/conductors: Place the anode elements or conductor wire/strip in the prepared holes or chase as designed.
4. Connect returns: Install the cathode/return path as specified to complete the circuit.
5. Seal & protect: Backfill or seal holes/chases with compatible materials; protect visible runs with clips/ducting.

7. Wiring to Control Unit

• Route insulated cables neatly from electrodes to the control unit location, avoiding sharp bends and sources of heat.
• Label positive/negative conductors clearly. Keep joints accessible where maintenance is anticipated.
• Provide local isolation and a dedicated, appropriately protected electrical supply as required.

8. Commissioning (illustration only)

1. Pre-checks: Verify polarity, continuity and insulation resistance per the system design.
2. Power up: Energise the control unit and set output within the recommended range.
3. Record readings: Note initial current/voltage and indicate status LEDs/alarms where provided.
4. Handover: Provide operating instructions and recommend a follow-up inspection schedule.

9. Making Good & Finishes

• Reinstate plaster/render using compatible renovation plasters or isolate with a membrane where specified.
• Allow adequate drying; salts may require de-salting or replacement of contaminated finishes.
• Keep cable routes and the control unit accessible for future servicing.

10. Aftercare & Monitoring

• Schedule periodic checks of control-unit status and output values.
• Inspect for redecorated areas showing salts or damp; address residual contamination if present.
• Maintain external fabric (gutters, pointing, ground levels) to minimise future moisture loading.

11. Product Availability

All components referenced—LECTROS Osmotic DPC anodes/conductors, control units, cables/connectors, plugs and sealing materials, and compatible finishing systems—are available directly from Clever Shield Coatings. Use the website search bar or browse our product categories to locate the items you need.