Most people would assume as a damp surveyor i’d only inspect old period properties, most of which are constructed absent from an original damp proof course. The truth is, however, that’s simply not the case. The majority of surveys I undertake are on much more modern properties, buildings that most would consider quality construction, with adequate protection against age old problems such as dampness.

Even … read more

This article my ruffle a few feathers however I believe it’s a topic well worthy of discussion.

How one paragraph in a BRE digest is used to dismiss thousands of damp related insurance claims…….and how contractors may also assist in this process.

So, do you know what this device is?…………………………………….

If you do great, you’re half way into understanding how this piece of equipment is … read more

in-situ remedial damp repairs to concrete floor and the problems associated with failure.

Thankfully it’s not often we’ll come across retrofit spray foam insulation however, it is still important to understand its impact as there are still a large amount of properties who’ve employed this insulation technique in the past.

Spray foam insulation is a polyurethane spray applied foam which sets to form an insulating barrier. It’s available in two different types open cell and closed cell.

Closed … read more

Gravimetry is basically the quantitative technique which measures mass or a change in mass during an analytical process. For example, we’ve probably all unknowingly undertaken this ourselves when stepping on scales during a dieting regime or when in training. Effectively we’re measuring our own body mass and comparing this weight loss or gain to a prior measurement, this is basic gravimetry.

The gravimetric technique is used … read more

Today I revisited a property to take some equilibrium relative humidity readings in a hygrobox which I installed last week. The property is a new build which had floor screeds laid late last year. The clients are installing expensive oak flooring throughout and wanted to check the floors were dry prior to laying. I undertake these tests often for many flooring contractors and floor retailers … read more

Over the past year or two I’ve recommended remote heating systems such as Nest or Hive to several clients most of whom are landlords suffering with mould / condensation problems in their let properties.

As most will know mould and condensation problems are not just caused by poor ventilation, they occur due to an imbalance between a number of factors such as: moisture production, ventilation, … read more

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nearly two years after the devastating floods in York, Dryfix are still surveying properties for reported flood damage.

Over the Christmas period of 2015/2016 the City of York suffered extensive flooding due to weeks of torrential rain and failing of the River Foss barrier, resulting in over 300 home owners requiring … read more

Flooded garage in York due to failed water proofing system. BS8102 - Code of practice for protection of below ground structures against water from the ground

Nice example of salt contamination on a chimney recently.

Have you ever noticed discoloured patches which often appear damp on the face of your chimney? If so, this could be caused by salt contamination.

Salt contamination within a chimney occurs due to the long term effects burning of fossil fuels (coal and wood etc) in an open fire. When fossil fuels are burnt, contaminates are … read more