Moisture, Dampness & Subsoil Drainage
Leaks
In a roof, wall, window or almost anywhere, we can probably find and fix that leak.
Using a combination of water sensitive paints, dyes and thermal imaging we can track down most troublesome leaks. Clearly isolating and identifying the problem this way minimises the quesswork in rectification.
Once we have pinpointed the source, we can rectify the leak with methods and materials to meet the relevant codes and standards. In cases where this is not possible, our comprehensive knowledge of roofing, flashings, waterproofing and correct construction methods means we can find a way to sort it out.
Sometimes, it may not even be a leak at all- but a condensation problem that looks like a leak (see thermal efficiency/condensation). We can sort those out too.
Did you know?
One of the largest cause of leaks is overflowing gutters, often caused by leaves in gutters and downpipes. Recent reviews to the National Construction Code stipluate that eave gutters now must now be installed or designed in a way which directs overflowing water to the OUTSIDE of the building (rather than the inside). Many existing gutter systems do not do this effectively.
Excess Ground Moisture
(and related problems)
Soil moisture problems can be a "no man's land"- and a very wet one at that. Problems can range from a nuisance (minor salt damp damage) to critical (collapsing retaining walls).
The greater Launceston area has a wide range of complex ground moisture issues. These include:
- recognised landslip areas
- highly reactive clay soils
- several highly saline soil regions.
We have dealt with all manner of problems in these varied soil conditions- collapsing footings, building movement, excess runoff, salt damp damage, collapsing retaining walls and so on.
A combination of (a) good groundwater management and (b) correct building materials/design is often needed to solve the problem.
Did you know?
One of the largest causes of retaining wall failure is inadequate drainage of the backfill. Even a well constructed wall which is backfilled with clay/topsoil can act as a dam. This "hydrostatic pressure" can be many times greater than the weight of soil behind it- leading to premature failure.
Subfloor Ventilation
(and moisture problems)
What goes on under a timber floor is often out of sight, out of mind.
Many homes have subfloor ventilation poor ventilation may be further reduced by building modifications, paving, garden beds and so on. Leaking plumbing and inappropriate drainage around the building can also exacerbate the problem.
High subfloor moisture causes progressive deterioration of the subfloor structure. Sometimes this shows up as spongy floors; moisture and mould in the home; or an obvious drop in the floor level.
Remedial actions include installation of passive ventilation; adjusting soil levels; creating drainage under and around the house; and creating free air paths in the subfloor. In difficult cases mechanical vent systems may be needed to control the moisture levels.
Try this before you call:
- The general requirement is 6000mm square of free ventilation for every lineal metre of perimeter wall (that is 6cm x 10cm of OPEN AREA in the vent, for every metre of external wall below the floor). See how your place stacks up.
- Remove any garden beds and plants that may be obstructing the free flow of air through the vents.
- Ensure that the soil/ground slopes AWAY from the building about 50mm over the first metre away from the edge of the building. This means excess water is not directed under the building when it rains.
Condensation:
Analysis and rectification
Condensation is a growing and often hidden problem in Tasmanian homes. It is due in large part to modern energy efficiency measures, which increase the internal temperature of buildings and hence the water vapour inside the house.
There is a huge amount of misinformation around energy efficiency and its sometimes common partner- condensation. Additionally, many businesses will push certain solutions, which may not be best suited to a given situation
There is no "one size fits all" solution when it comes to condensation management and thermal efficiency. Only through taking the effort to understand the problem is it possible to find the correct solution.
Ionic Construction is one of the leaders in Australia in the analysis of rectification of condensation. We are also working with experts in the field to develop best practice construction methods to minimise condensation risk.
Did you know?
A "typical family" (4 person) home can generate over 70kg of water vapour each week from breathing, sweating, showers, washing, cooking, clothes dryers etc. If you really want to get your teeth into condensation then look at this.