Timber decay is the slow breakdown of wood caused by fungi or wood-boring insects thriving in damp conditions. It affects properties of all ages: from Victorian terraces to modern commercial buildings undergoing refurbishment. Timber decay almost...
If the internal surface of your walls are wet after rain, this is usually caused by penetrating damp. This means water is able to bypass your property’s exterior defences, which are designed to stop moisture ingress....
Dry rot (Serpula lacrymans) is a serious type of fungal decay that can compromise the structural integrity of buildings by attacking timber. But is dry rot actually dangerous? The answer is more complicated than a simple...
Peter Cox will be running virtual CPD seminars again, covering a range of property preservation topics. Joining our virtual CPD’s will allow you to gain your CPD points. Best of all, these seminars are totally free....
Fungal Decay in Buildings Wood is a very resilient material which is able to remain intact for hundreds, if not thousands of years, but introduces moisture and things can change quite rapidly. Both wood boring insects...
For homeowners, landlords, and property renovators, particularly those responsible for older or historic buildings, discovering timber decay is a deeply concerning scenario. Wood is a foundational building material used in most British properties, providing the structural skeleton...
(Reading time 4 minutes) A damp patch on a wall is a common, unwelcome problem that many homeowners face, especially in winter. They usually start as a small stain or soft spot, but can often lead...
A Guide to Preventing Damp Problems For many homeowners and property renovators, especially those managing older or heritage buildings, dampness is a persistent problem. Whether you are dealing with water pooling against your foundations, porous masonry...
Skirting boards are more than just a decorative finish; they serve a practical architectural purpose in homes and properties. They are designed to hide the joint where the floor meets the wall, as they cover the...
Damp patches forming on a chimney breast can cause persistent frustration for homeowners, often appearing, darkening, or disappearing with no apparent pattern. These patches can be particularly baffling because they appear to occur randomly, regardless of...