Leicester and Peterborough Property Care

Damp proofing is a general term covering several different methods used to keep excess moisture out of a building. Damp proofing treatments help to prevent water being absorbed through walls or floors and entering interior spaces of a property. If damp were to pass through the fabric of walls or floors it could lead to structural damage and timber decay (such as dry or wet rot) within the building. We provide an extensive inspection by a qualified surveyor who will diagnose the extent and type of dampness - providing recommendations on the most effective ways to treat the damp problem affecting a property.

We look after a wide variety of premises in various locations, from properties in ancient rural hamlets like Twycross or Wistow to modern and renovated urban dwellings. Our customers range from owners of historical and period properties to those with modern and refurbished dwellings. With city centre locations, along with rural villages and hamlets within this region, our experience and knowledge of the area helps us combat property care issues such as wood-boring beetles, rising damp and rot issues quickly and effectively.

Leicester is one of the oldest cities in England, (the remains of the baths of Roman Leicester can be seen at the Jewry Wall) and it is mentioned in the medieval Domesday Book. Peterborough, along the Bedford Levels has been called the ‘Gateway to the Fens’ and is another ancient settlement that has developed over the decades from a medieval market town and 19^th Century industrial centre into a modern ‘new town’ taking London's overspill population in new townships sited around the existing urban area. Much of the area around Peterborough is fenland (drained during the 17^th Century) which leaves most of the land a few metres above or below sea level. This has left places like Whitlesey and Tallington susceptible to surface and ground water flooding, as well as potential flooding from the River Nene.

Many months after any flood water has receded and damp may no longer be visible, moisture levels can still be high enough for wood decay to occur in timbers, and may not be easily seen if hidden in voids or cavities. This could potentially lead to damage through wet or dry rot in a property.

Properties of any age, size or history can be exposed to the risks of damage from woodworm, rot and damp. These kinds of problems tend be more prevalent in older buildings, such as Victorian and early 20^th Century properties or those that have been refurbished or repurposed during their lifetime. Unfortunately, the damage that can be caused is not always immediately obvious.

The vital difference between dry rot and wet rot is the amount of moisture needed within the timber to allow growth. The term ‘Dry Rot’ would suggest no moisture, but in fact a minimum moisture content of about 20% is needed for dry rot to flourish. It’s often found in hidden voids such as the underside of wooden floors, beneath stairs & roof trusses – as it likes warm, damp unventilated areas. Wet rot is limited to very damp wood or plaster with a moisture content of at least 50% and will remain confined to that wet area. The high moisture content required for wet rot is often a result of defective plumbing, gutters or downpipes. We offer professional diagnosis of the type of rot affecting a property, and will tailor a solution to protect it from further damage. All our rot treatments carry a 30 year guarantee.

Woodworm is the every-day name for hungry larvae of wood-boring beetles. Adults lay eggs in cracks in wood and the larvae (woodworm) burrow deep into it and feed, making a maze of tunnels over several years. They will happily eat away at wooden floors, furniture and timbers and if left untreated, can seriously weakens wooden beams in a property which can lead to structural failure of the timbers.

Spotting the early signs of woodworm is important; allowing a qualified surveyor to complete a woodworm survey assessing the extent of any problem, the type of woodworm involved and recommending the most effective, targeted treatment to eliminate the pest before it can spread any further through the property.

Lofts, cellars, garages and wooden sheds throughout Peterborough, Leicestershire and Northamptonshire could potentially be home home to wood-boring beetles, like the common furniture beetle or the powder post beetle. The larvae (woodworm) of these beetles, if left untreated can cause serious damage to wooden beams, floors and wooden furniture in a property.

Damage to buildings caused by problems like woodworm, rot or damp are often not immediately visible. Our professional team of Certificated Surveyors in Remedial Treatment (CSRT) have the knowledge, expertise and resources to deal with any property care issues. Quality, specialist technicians are on hand to respond quickly to help keep your home free from woodworm, rot and damp. With over 60 years of experience in effectively resolving these issues our treatments for rising damp, fungal decay and woodworm all carry a 30 year guarantee for your peace of mind.