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Damp & TImber Surveys Dronfield

PCA Damp & Timber Survey & Treatment Dronfield

Date Published

Problems with suspended timber floors can often develop out of sight, particularly in older properties where ventilation beneath the floor has become restricted over time.

We were contacted by Helen following concerns at her three bedroom semi detached property in Dronfield. After carrying out a PCA approved damp and timber survey, our inspection identified extensive timber decay beneath the sitting room floor, together with evidence of wood boring beetle activity.

The affected floor structure required specialist remedial work, but it was equally important to improve the conditions beneath the property to help prevent the same problems developing again.



The Property in Dronfield

This project involved a three bedroom semi detached property in Dronfield, Derbyshire.

The sitting room featured a suspended timber floor with a cellar area beneath. Our investigation established that sections of the structural floor timbers had deteriorated significantly and required replacement.

The presence of moisture beneath suspended floors can create conditions where fungal decay develops and wood boring beetles are able to attack vulnerable timber.



Damp & TImber Survey Dronfield

What Our Survey Found

Our PCA damp and timber survey identified extensive decay affecting the suspended timber floor joists within the sitting room.

There was also evidence of wood boring beetle activity within the affected timber.

Rather than simply replacing the damaged sections and covering the floor back over, it was important to consider the environment beneath the property. Restricted air circulation within the cellar was contributing to conditions that allowed moisture levels around the timber structure to remain too high.

Improving ventilation therefore formed an important part of the remedial specification alongside the structural timber repairs.



Our Timber Repair & Woodworm Treatment

The affected floor structure was carefully opened up so that the condition of the timbers could be properly assessed and the damaged sections removed.

All affected joists were taken out and replaced like for like using new treated structural timbers.

Where the replacement joists came into contact with the surrounding masonry, they were isolated using a damp proof membrane. This provides additional protection against moisture transferring from the masonry into the new timber and helps prolong the lifespan of the repaired floor structure.

Our team also opened up the air circulation within the cellar to improve ventilation beneath the suspended floor.

Increasing airflow helps moisture escape from beneath the property and creates a much drier environment around the structural timbers, reducing the likelihood of similar problems developing again in the future.



Damp and TImber Surveys Dronfield


The Outcome in Dronfield

The completed work has restored the structural integrity of the sitting room floor while also addressing the conditions that had contributed to the deterioration.

The property now benefits from new treated structural joists, protection between the replacement timbers and surrounding masonry, and improved ventilation throughout the cellar and sub floor area.

As with all our timber repair projects, the objective was not simply to replace what had deteriorated. By understanding why the timber had become vulnerable in the first place, we were able to provide a more complete and longer lasting solution.



“After a survey visit to my home which revealed issues with our suspended sitting room floor of extensive timber decay and evidence of wood boring beetles, not what you would want! The team provided excellent information about the work needed, they were professional, knowledgeable and thorough.

All the affected joists were removed and replaced with new, like for like, treated timbers, which were isolated from surrounding masonry to prevent future damp issues to prolong their lifespan.

The team also opened up the air circulation in the cellar to keep the area as dry as possible.

The workmanship was excellent, clean, tidy and professional. Communication was also very good. We would recommend AMPM to others requiring specialist repairs, particularly their clear information, options and explanation of particular requirements relating to the work they carry out.

Thanks so much for a great job!”

Helen Allan, Dronfield

https://maps.app.goo.gl/SM8xjbEQgshYzznCA

Property Owner, Dronfield
Sheffield Damp & Timber Treatment

Why Choose AMPM Property Maintenance

  • PCA qualified damp surveyors
  • Detailed pre purchase damp and timber surveys
  • Professional damp proofing systems
  • Experienced local team
  • Honest advice and clear reporting
  • Careful treatment of customers’ homes

We regularly carry out damp surveys and damp proofing works across Dronfield, Derbyshire and South Yorkshire.

If a mortgage lender has requested a damp and timber survey via a PCA contractor, we can help.

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How can AMPM help you?

If you are looking for a team of fully insured and accredited tradesmen to help you with a commercial or domestic project, then speak to a member of the AMPM team and arrange for a free, no obligation consultation.

Call us - 01246 508 661