Timber Care
The best form of timber care is regular inspection and early identification of any changes. Roof spaces, floors, skirting boards, joists and other areas containing timber should be periodically checked for signs of moisture, decay or insect activity.
Where wood-boring insect activity has already been identified, preventative treatment should generally follow the appropriate eradication treatment. Applying a preventative timber treatment to an existing infestation without first addressing the active problem may not provide an effective solution.
Good ventilation, maintaining dry conditions and promptly addressing any sources of moisture are equally important in protecting timber over the long term.
Preventing Damp
The most effective way to prevent damp-related problems is to keep the building fabric in good condition and deal with sources of water as soon as they become apparent. Roof coverings, gutters, downpipes, flashings, pointing, external finishes, windows and plumbing should all be maintained and checked regularly.
Good ventilation is also important, particularly in kitchens, bathrooms and other areas where moisture is routinely generated. Allowing moisture to escape rather than accumulate within the building can significantly reduce the risk of condensation and associated problems.
It is important to recognise, however, that no maintenance programme can completely eliminate the possibility of damp. Severe or prolonged weather, hidden leaks, defects within the building fabric and changes to how a building is used can all introduce moisture unexpectedly.
The aim of preventative care is therefore not to promise that damp or timber problems will never occur, but to reduce the risk, identify problems at an early stage and prevent minor issues from developing into significant defects.
Regular inspection, appropriate maintenance and prompt action remain the best protection for the long-term condition of the building.