Shield Pest Control UK

Damp & Timber Surveys

If you own a property, whether you are a landlord or a homeowner, it is vital to ensure that the building is well maintained and in good order to ensure that it is a comfortable place to live.

Buildings are not just bricks and mortar. Structures are comprised of many different materials, including wood and timber, which helps ensure the building is strong and can withstand the elements. Keeping these different materials in good order can help prolong the life of the building and prevent any issues arising which could make space uninhabitable.

Damp and timber surveys are just one aspect of property ownership which should be part of your maintenance schedule. The team at Shield has years’ of experience supporting clients with their damp and timber surveys, providing remedial recommendations as well as carrying out any maintenance work which is required.

What issues can damp cause in a building?

Dampness is a common problem in buildings of any age and can cause significant damage if left untreated. There are various types of damp which can appear in the walls, floors or ceilings of buildings, including rising damp, penetrating damp, and condensation.

Rising damp occurs when moisture from the ground rises up through the walls. It can cause major damage to the walls of your home, affecting paintwork, wallpaper, plastering and eventually destroying the masonry and brickwork.

Penetrating damp occurs when water enters the building from the outside, creating wet and dry rot within the fabric of the walls. Not only can this cause similar issues to rising damp, as well as wet spots in plasterwork, it can also affect the structure of your building, creating weak spots.

Condensation is caused by high humidity levels in the property and can result in mould growth if left unchecked. This can pose a serious long term health risk to residents and tenants.

 

What is a damp survey?

Carried out by qualified damp specialists, a damp survey is used to asses a property’s risk of damp, or to investigate areas of damp which are already present.

A damp survey is typically conducted when there are signs of dampness such as mould growth, water stains, or a musty smell.

A damp survey can provide remedial recommendations to help detect the presence of damp, as well as proving recommendations to prevent further damp damage.

We always recommended to carry out a damp survey before purchasing a property or if there are signs of dampness in an existing property. This can help to prevent further damage to the structure and ensure a safe and healthy living environment for residents and tenants.

What happens during a damp survey?

During a damp survey, a specialist will visually inspect the property. They are experts at spotting the visible signs of dampness, such as damp patches, staining, and mould growth which may not always be obvious.

They may also use specialist tools such as moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras to detect the presence of moisture in the structure.

 

What timber issues can occur in buildings?

There are a number of different issues which can arise within the timber of a building. These issues can affect the strength of the structure as well as having an impact on the longevity and safety of the building, therefore it’s imperative to ensure that any timber is well maintained and cared for.

One common problem is wood decay caused by fungal growth, which can weaken the structure and compromise its integrity. Moisture is a significant contributor to fungal growth and can also lead to warping and shrinking of timber, affecting its structural stability.

Plus, wood worm, termites and wood-boring beetles, can also damage the wood, making it weaker.

 

What is a timber survey?

A timber survey provides a comprehensive assessment of the condition, safety, and performance of timber within the structure of a building.

Typically conducted by qualified building surveyors or structural engineers, they identify any defects or structural issues that may compromise the safety or stability of the building, including the quality and condition of the timber components, such as beams, joists, and columns.

The survey will provide a detailed report outlining any issues or concerns, along with recommendations for repairs or maintenance. This information is essential for property owners, buyers, and insurers to make informed decisions about the safety, value, and longevity of the building.

 

What happens during a timber survey?

The survey will typically involve a visual inspection of the building’s exterior and interior, including the roof, walls, floors, and foundations.

The surveyor will also assess the building’s history, including any previous repairs or modifications. They are likely to use specialised tools and equipment to measure moisture levels and identify any signs of decay or insect damage.

 

Why use Shield for your damp and timber surveys and maintenance?

Shield has years of experience supporting property owners maintain their buildings, including through damp and timber surveys as well as carrying out essential work and maintenance to rectify any issues.

 

About our services:

  • All our surveys are carried out by fully qualified, industry approved and insured surveyors
  • Our team provides full written reports detailing our findings with diagnosis of the problem and recommendations with costs for any appropriate remedial repair work.
  • We are able to carry out any maintenance or essential works to fix any issues with damp or timber problems.
  • All of our solutions are guaranteed for up to 20 years, providing property owners with peace of mind for years to come.

 

Who we work with

We work with a wide range of clients, including business owners, homeowners and housing associations, and tailor our services to suit their individual needs.

Get in touch with us today to find out how we can help with your damp and timber surveys, and any remedial work which needs to be carried out.

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