Historic timber frame building in Lancashire

Independent Timber & Damp Surveys

Comprehensive damp surveys of historic buildings across the northwest.

Bowland Surveyors undertakes detailed damp surveys of historic buildings throughout Lancashire and the surrounding counties. Our work frequently involves listed buildings, traditional stone cottages, victorian houses and other historic structures where modern damp-proofing approaches are often inappropriate.

An invasive timber and damp survey provides owners of historic buildings with a detailed understanding of the underlying issues together with prioritised recommendations for repair and remediation.

Reports are prepared in accordance with the following guidance:

BS 7913 – Guide to the Conservation of Historic Buildings.
BS 5250 – Management of Moisture in Buildings.
BRE Digest 466 – Understanding Dampness.

Our investigations typically include:

Detailed inspection of the external building envelope to identify potential sources of moisture ingress.
Assessment of surface drainage and rainwater disposal systems.
Evaluation of the building environment (e.g. ground levels & exposure) and its influence on moisture levels.
Assessment of the condition and integrity of the accessible structural timber elements within the building.
Identification of fungal decay and wood-boring beetle infestation along with with an assessment of the resulting deterioration.
Inspection of loft spaces and sub-floor voids where accessible.
Assessment of ventilation provisions throughout the building.
Borescope camera inspection of concealed voids.
Deep moisture content analysis of structural timber bearings where required.
Quantitative gravimetric moisture content analysis of masonry samples in accordance with BRE Digest 245.
Chemical analysis of masonry samples to determine hygroscopic salt content.

All of our findings are presented within a detailed report including annotated photography, clear diagnostic conclusions, and prioritised recommendations for repair and remediation appropriate for the historic nature of the building. Technical CAD drawings are also provided where required.