Which statement correctly describes the difference between damp proofing and waterproofing?

• A. Damp proofing restricts the movement of soil moisture through masonry
• B. Waterproofing eliminates the flow of water completely, including soil moisture
• C. Both statements are correct
• D. Neither statement is correct

Answer: (C)

Moisture control in walls has two levels: stopping dampness from soil moisture and stopping liquid water from entering the interior. Damp proofing is meant to reduce capillary rise and the movement of soil moisture through masonry, which is why stating that it restricts that movement through masonry is accurate. It’s about preventing dampness from the surrounding soil from wicking into the wall, not about withstanding full hydrostatic pressure.

Waterproofing aims higher by creating a barrier to liquid water that could be pushed against the wall, blocking water intrusion even under pressure. Saying that it eliminates the flow of water completely, including soil moisture, captures the intended function of a waterproofing system: it prevents water from entering the interior under the conditions it’s designed for.

So both descriptions line up with how these systems are used: damp proofing restricts moisture movement from soil, while waterproofing prevents water ingress under pressure.