Let’s be honest: in the construction game, water is the enemy. It’s persistent, it’s destructive, and if you don’t manage it correctly from the get-go, it’s going to come back to haunt you. For any builder worth their salt, ensuring a structure is watertight isn’t just a "nice-to-have"—it’s the baseline requirement for a job well done.
We know you’ve got a reputation to uphold. That’s why getting your damp proofing strategy right is non-negotiable. Whether you are laying a concrete slab for a new extension or managing a massive commercial development, the barrier you put between the ground and the building is the unsung hero of the project.
At Indigo Supplies, we’ve been supporting the trade since 1998. We understand that you need materials that are tough, compliant, and—crucially—delivered on time so your lads aren't standing around waiting. Here is everything you need to know about selecting the right membrane for the job.
Understanding the basics: DPM vs DPC
Before we dive into the heavy-duty rolls, let’s quickly clear up a common confusion in the trade. While they both fight the same battle, a Damp Proof Membrane (DPM) and a Damp Proof Course (DPC) are soldiers on different fronts.
A damp proof course is that strip of impervious material (usually polyethylene) built into a masonry wall to stop moisture rising from the ground via capillary action. It’s essential, but it only protects the walls.
A damp proof membrane, on the other hand, is a sheet material designed to prevent the transmission of moisture from the ground into the concrete slab of a building. Think of it as the shield for the entire footprint of the structure.
You need both. Skimping on either is a recipe for rising damp, rot, and a very angry client calling you six months down the line.
Why the quality of your polythene matters
You might look at a roll of black plastic and think, "It’s just plastic, surely it’s all the same?"
Well, not quite.
In the world of polythene sheeting, durability is king. A cheap, thin membrane might save you a few quid at the checkout, but if it tears during installation—or worse, degrades over time—the cost of rectifying that mistake is astronomical. You are talking about digging up floors. Nobody wants that.
Heavy-duty protection
Standard dpm polythene is typically manufactured to specific thicknesses (gauges) to ensure it can withstand the rigours of a building site. You’ll usually be looking at:
- 1000 Gauge (250 Micron): The standard for general use.
- 1200 Gauge (300 Micron): Heavier duty, offering better puncture resistance.
- 2000 Gauge (500 Micron): For when you really need to bring out the big guns.
High-quality dpm polythene sheeting acts as a robust barrier against groundwater, but it also helps with curing concrete by preventing the mix from drying out too fast.
Choosing the right materials
When you are sourcing materials, you want a polythene manufacturer or supplier who stocks trusted brands.
For example, visqueen polythene is a name that rings a bell for most UK builders. It’s synonymous with quality. Using brand-name or high-spec generic dpm sheeting ensures you are meeting building regulations and providing a lasting solution.
What to look for in a supplier
You’re busy. You don’t have time to chase deliveries or argue about specs. You need a polythene supplier that gets it.
- Stock availability: Do they have the polythene rolls ready to go?
- Range: Can they supply the jointing tape, the top hat units, and the radon barriers too?
- Price: Are they competitive?
As a leading polythene supplier uk, Indigo Supplies ticks all those boxes. We supply businesses with a huge range of industrial materials, and our DPM range is second to none.
Installation tips for the pros
You know your trade, but it never hurts to have a refresher on best practices to ensure that dpm performs exactly as it should.
- Preparation is key: Ensure the blinding layer (sand or concrete) is smooth. Sharp stones are the natural predator of polythene.
- Overlap generously: Don’t be stingy. Overlap your sheets by at least 150mm.
- Seal it tight: Use the correct double-sided jointing tape. A loose joint is a leak waiting to happen.
- Link to the DPC: Your membrane must be continuous with the damp proof course in the walls. No gaps!
Why Indigo Supplies?
We know you have plenty of options when looking for a polythene manufacturer uk distributor. So, why pick us?
First off, we have a 5-star Google rating, which tells you we don’t mess around when it comes to service. We’ve been in the game since 1998, so we aren’t a fly-by-night operation.
We also offer a price beater guarantee. If you find the same product cheaper elsewhere, give us a shout—we will do our utmost to beat it. We believe you shouldn’t have to choose between quality service and a good price.
Secure your site today
Damp doesn't take a day off, and neither do we. Whether you need a single roll for a garage conversion or a pallet load for a new housing estate, let Indigo Supplies take care of all your damp proofing needs.
Check out our extensive range of high-performance membranes and accessories online. If you can’t find exactly what you’re looking for, or if you just want some friendly advice from a team that knows the industry inside out, pick up the phone.
Call 01268 768 768 for more info.