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PCA Sheffield Damp & Timber Survey

PCA Damp & Timber Survey & Treatment In Sheffield

Date Published

Older Victorian properties often hide problems beneath the floorboards that homeowners never see until it is too late.

We were contacted by the customer and asked to undertake an extensive PCA approved damp and timber survey. We were then instructed to carry out extensive remedial works at this three bedroom Victorian terraced property in Hillsborough, Sheffield. Our inspection uncovered significant timber decay and an active wood boring beetle infestation beneath the suspended timber floor, resulting in sections of the floor collapsing.

By identifying and treating the root cause of the problem, rather than simply replacing damaged timbers, we were able to restore the property's structural integrity and provide a long term solution.


The Property in Sheffield

This project involved a traditional three bedroom Victorian terraced house in Hillsborough, Sheffield.

Like many properties of this age, the home featured a suspended timber floor. Whilst this type of construction performs well when properly ventilated, poor airflow and high moisture levels can eventually lead to timber decay and wood boring beetle activity if left untreated.


What Our Survey Found

Our detailed PCA damp and timber survey confirmed that the suspended timber floor had suffered extensive fungal decay, with sections of the floor structure becoming unsafe.

Further investigation revealed active wood boring beetle activity affecting the damp timbers beneath the floor. Rather than simply replacing the damaged timber, we investigated why the problem had developed in the first place.

We discovered that inadequate sub floor ventilation, combined with external ground levels sitting too high against the property, had trapped moisture beneath the suspended floor for many years. The consistently damp environment created the perfect conditions for fungal decay and allowed wood boring beetles to thrive.


Our Timber Repair & Woodworm Treatment

To ensure the problem would not return, we first addressed the underlying moisture issues.

External ground levels were reduced to the correct height below the damp proof course, helping to prevent moisture bridging into the property.

We then opened up and enlarged the existing sub floor air vents to significantly improve cross ventilation beneath the suspended timber floor. Increasing airflow is essential to reducing moisture levels and preventing future timber decay.

Once the environment beneath the property had been improved, we carefully removed the damaged sections of the suspended timber floor.

All decayed joist ends were replaced using new treated structural timbers. Each replacement joist was isolated from the surrounding masonry using a damp proof membrane to prevent future moisture transfer into the timber.

New timber floorboards were then installed throughout the affected areas before all existing and replacement timbers were treated with a professional boron based preservative cream. This treatment eradicates active wood boring beetles while providing long term protection against future infestations.


The Outcome in South Yorkshire

By tackling both the cause and the symptoms of the problem, we were able to restore the structural integrity of the suspended timber floor and significantly improve the environment beneath the property.

The homeowners now benefit from a safe, solid floor structure, improved sub floor ventilation and long term protection against both timber decay and wood boring beetle activity.

This project in Sheffield, South Yorkshire demonstrates why it is essential to diagnose the source of timber problems correctly, rather than simply replacing damaged timber without addressing the moisture issues that caused the deterioration.


Really pleased with the work done replacing some floor joists and associated external work following some damp proofing work. Steven was really friendly and helpful when coming to quote. When doing the work, he and his team were great - efficient, keen to explain what they were doing throughout the work and left the place tidy.
Happy to recommend and wouldn't think twice about using their services again 😊🤔

The report was comprehensive, clear, and professionally presented, with a very speedy turnaround. Communication throughout was great and I was kept informed at every stage. I wouldn’t hesitate to use AMPM again in the future and would highly recommend their services.

https://maps.app.goo.gl/sUSRiyoNzjYsaQEs8

— Property Owner, Sheffield
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 Doncaster and South Yorkshire.

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

Learn more in our blog

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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