Timber Preservation
About Timber Preservation
Intona specialise in Timber Preservation services and treatments for both residential and commercial buildings, either for existing owners or prospective buyers.
As a member of the Property Care Association (PCA - formerly known as the British Wood Preserving and Damp Proofing Association), it is a requirement that a percentage of a company's surveyors attain to the status of Certificated Surveyor for Remedial Treatment (C.S.R.T). This involves examinations in Damp Proofing, Timber Preservation and Health and Safety. The successful surveyors are then entitled to display the C.S.R.T. initials after their name.
Whether the problem is a fungus attacking wood such as Dry Rot or Wet Rot, or infestation by Woodworm, we can help.
What To Look For
There are many types of Wet Rot, but only one Dry Rot (Serpula Lacrymans). The fungi attack the lining in the wood cells, breaking them down with a range of enzymes which produces the stiffened (liquified) walls of wood cells.
The fundamental principle for the control of all fungal decay such as Dry Rot and Wet Rot is the control of water; a fundamental consideration for timber preservation is that timbers should not be left in a position where they might become or remain damp.
Wood rotting fungi can be categorised in two groups: brown rot and white rot. Brown rots tend to darken the timber, causing cracking along and across the grain. White rots lighten the timber, and cause fibrous damage.
Click here to learn more about Dry Rot and Wet Rot.
How We Fix It
Our surveyors will visit the affected property and carry out a detailed inspection. Where possible, they will point out the cause of the attack. A full written report will be prepared for the client. Where required, sketches will be provided to illustrate particular points.
If the majority of works involve fungal decay, some disruption is inevitable. The affected areas need to be cut back to sound timber. The replacement timber will be isolated from masonry and be either pretreated or treated on site. In the case of dry rot, walls may need to be drilled and sterilised with fungicidal fluid.
We aim to provide total reassurance to our clients. Our company offers full reinstatement - from the replacement of walls, ceilings and floors right through to final redecoration. You can be sure that, when the work is completed, your property will be both sound and well-finished.
Woodworm
The term woodworm is an inaccurate one, as 'woodworm' is actually a beetle infestation. The damage caused to the timbers is due to the feeding of beetle larvae
It is important to identify which infestation we are dealing with, as some infestations require no chemical treatment whilst others require more particular attention.
For further information on Woodworm, (The common furniture beetle, Wood boring weevil, and other kinds of beetle infestation) please contact us.
Wet Rot
All Wet Rot occurs when poor ventilation and high levels of moisture content (above 50%) have been allowed to penetrate the fabric of the building, enabling the Wet Rot fungi to cause the structural break down of timbers. Unlike dry rot, wet rot will remain near the source of moisture.
There are many species of Wet Rot, but it is not necessary to identify them as the treatments required are the same for all of them.
Dry Rot
There is only one species of Dry Rot. It occurs when excess moisture penetrates the fabric of the building, raising the adjacent timber moisture content to above 20% of the oven-dry weight.
Dry Rot has the ability to travel through brick walls and concrete floors well away from the source of moisture in search of additional timber. Dry Rot can be serious and expensive, and immediate action should be taken to arrest the problem and minimise further damage.
We will be delighted to consider tendering for any contract. Clients can be assured of a competitive package.
