SURVEYING AND CONSULTANCY

sBasement Waterproofing

CSSW WATERPROOFING DESIGN.

Following the revision of BS8102 in 2009 and 2022 which now requires the involvement of a CSSW qualified waterproofing designer, waterproofing design for below-ground structures such as retaining walls, existing cellars or new-build basements has become the largest element of my work, primarily working closely with Newton Waterproofing systems https://www.newtonwaterproofing.co.uk/ and other brands.

I am able to design, specify and fully guarantee a bespoke waterproofing system using one or a combination of the many excellent systems and products on the market, backed by my qualifications, experience and comprehansive Professional Indemnity Insurance cover.

Rising Damp Control

Over the past 60 years the damp-proofing sector of the industry has acquired a poor reputation (quite rightly in my opinion) however there have been very significant improvements in recent years and the vast majority of contractors now operate in a much more ethical and informed manner. There have even been publications claming that rising damp does not exist although this is overwhelimgly disproved. The fact is that majority of buildings constructed in Cornwall before around 1900 were not built with any form of damp-proof course (DPC) at the base of the walls and many of these buildings have sustained some degree of rising damp during their history, which affects only the lower parts of the walls.

There are a number of ways that active rising damp can be managed, controlled or eliminated, and a sound understanding and correct management of the associated residual hygroscopic salt contamination ensures an effective overall result.

Woodworm

There are a number of different species of wood-boring beetle which affect timbers within buildings in the UK, and all are treatable in one way or another although a correct diagnosis is essential.

Dry-Rot & Wet-Rot

There are a number of common species of wood-rotting fungi which are found in our buildings, many of which can look very similar in the way they appear and the way they destroy the timber and this is why expert diagnosis is essential. A good understanding of the nature and biology of the various wood-rotting fungal species is necessary to effectively treat decay with the minimum of disruption.

Structural reinforcement 

I’m not a structural engineer, however I do have extensive experience in remedial structural  repairs in masonry walls. I can specify low-disturbance, working structural masonry repairs and reinforcement for most common problems including bowed and cracked walls, failed lintels and settlement. Most standard repair specifications and bespoke reinforcement designs can be guaranteed and insured.

Plastering & pointing

Whilst I do not operate as a contractor I can advise on work such as specialist replastering, repointing, rendering and general repairs often associated with damp-related and structural works.