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Care of Timber Framed Buildings

Suffolk and East Anglia has some wonderful timber building dating back to Elizabethan times and beyond. They give the county a unique feel and help give each small village or hamlet a sense of history and belonging which is passed down through the generations.

Many building are rightly protected by legislation to help guide the current inhabitants to their care and responsibilities. There are also a few things timber framed property home owners need to keep an eye out for.

1) Insects and Pests

The Xylopagous insects can be a problem and need to be controlled as they are wood eating animals.

Homeowners also need to be aware of the Anobiidae family of beetles which also feed and breed in the structure of the building.

2) Wet Rot

Wet rot appears when there is unwanted water within the structure. This can happen for a variety of reasons including inappropriate modern renders. Homeowners need to take action as soon as possible to avoid lasting damage.

3) Dry Rot

Dry rot can appear due to the presence of certain fungi which will undermine the structural integrity of the building unless treated.

2) Adequate Water Run Off.

Timber buildings would often stand on their own with earth all around. Problems can appear if a modern extension or patio is added which doesn't allow for proper drainage, leaving water to seep back into the timbers.

5) Fire Safety

Timber buildings are made of wood and wood burns well. It sounds obvious, but need to to be taken into account when fitting and maintaining fire alarms and fire extinguishers. Residents also need to make sure they have sorted out a safe escape route from first floor rooms in the event of a fire as some building with have window that are too small to or not accessible to climb through.