Principal Activities of Kilbury Conservation
Our Conservation team provide a range of specialist services...
Surveying & Testing
Building surveys for structural and environmental dampness, concrete analysis, wood-boring insect infestation, timber decay, penetrating dampness, below-ground water penetration, building pathology.
Preservation Work
Chemical damp-proofing complying with BS6576:2005+A1:2012, including associated removal and reinstatement of wall plasters using a variety of techniques and renders.
Timber treatments to eradicate wood-boring insects including the Common Furniture Beetle (Anobium punctatum) and the Death Watch Beetle (Xestobium rufovillosum).
Wet and dry rot treatments and repairs. Accurate diagnosis of decay and targeting of appropriate treatments. Repair methodology embracing both traditional carpentry techniques and epoxy resin repairs, as well as plaster reinstatement where appropriate using a variety of techniques and renders.
Below-ground structural waterproofing to BS8102:2022 using a variety of air gap cavity membrane systems (Type C protection) and barrier systems (Type A protection). We are trained in designing and installing systems in both existing and new below-ground construction.
Conservation Work
Façade work, particularly to Listed and period buildings.
This includes assessment of the nature and condition of external renders and coatings as well as assessment of underlying masonry and natural stone facings.
Façade repair work in accordance with conservation principles using appropriate materials which are sympathetic to the substrate and surrounding materials that are to remain.
Repointing works using traditional lime mortars and putties, masonry repairs.
Assessment of timber-framed structures and appropriate remedial measures including traditional carpentry techniques and targeted use of thin film adhesives.
Roof and chimney repairs, particularly to Listed and period buildings, using traditional remedial measures and materials, for example traditional lime renders and natural slate.
Commercial Work
Dilapidation works, traditional maintenance and refurbishment works, floor preparation and coatings and repairs to commercial units.
Fire & Flood Remediation
Flood and fire-related insurance works, including all remediation works. Flood resilience measures in advance of or post flooding.
Traditional Building Work
Remodelling and alteration works including structural alterations, temporary works in conjunction with structural alterations, small extensions, remodelling of bathrooms and kitchens, traditional maintenance work.
Structural Repairs & Temporary Works
Basement excavations, underpinning works, temporary propping works, structural openings and steelwork, reinforced concrete works, reinforced concrete ground slabs and retaining walls, structural stitch repairs to masonry and masonry repairs, replacement of decayed structural timbers, replacement of defective cavity trays and the like.
Kilbury Conservation was started in 2017
Led by Simon Wynn with substantial support from Neil Lester, Calum Dean and Tim Carter, this division focuses on a variety of services, including surveying, preservation work, conservation efforts and traditional building maintenance.
Works are carried-out using designed treatments which can include insurance-backed guarantees. As specialists in dampness and failing structures… we love all things damp and broken!
Our Conservation team carry out stand-alone surveys, which cover:
Structural and environmental dampness
Concrete analysis
Wood-boring insect infestation
Timber decay, penetrating dampness
Below-ground water penetration and building pathology.
As for preserving buildings, we use the following techniques:
Chemical damp-proofing and reinstatement of specialist wall finishes
Timber treatments to eradicate wood-boring insects
Wet and dry rot treatments and repairs
Below-ground structural waterproofing using a variety of membrane and barrier systems.
Dealing with Damp
To effectively treat damp, the key is to focus on identifying the type of damp, improving ventilation, and addressing any underlying issues such as leaks or poor insulation. You can also consider using a dehumidifier to control moisture levels, and address mould with appropriate cleaning products.
For rising damp, a damp-proof course (DPC) injection may be necessary, but in summary, we recommend following the 5-step process set-out here.
1. Identify the Type of Damp
Condensation: Often caused by poor ventilation and excess moisture in the air, leading to condensation on windows and walls.
Rising Damp: Water seeping up from the ground through porous materials like brick or mortar.
Penetrating Damp: Water entering through damaged walls, roofs, or external defects.
2. Improve Ventilation
Regular Airing: Open windows for 10-15 minutes each morning to allow moisture to escape.
Extractor Fans: Install or use existing extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms to remove moisture during cooking and showering.
Trickle Vents: Utilize trickle vents on windows to provide continuous ventilation.
Dehumidifiers: Use a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture from the air, especially in areas prone to dampness.
Dry Laundry Outdoors: Avoid drying clothes indoors, as this can significantly increase humidity.
3. Address Underlying Issues
Repair Leaks: Fix any leaks in pipes, roofs, or gutters to prevent water from entering your home.
Improve Insulation: Insulate cold walls to reduce condensation and prevent dampness.
Check Gutters and Downpipes: Ensure gutters and downpipes are clear and functioning properly to direct water away from the house.
Address Cracks and Defects: Repair any cracks or defects in external walls to prevent water penetration.
4. Treat Damp Walls
Mould Removal: Use a mould remover spray and sponge to clean affected areas.
Damp-Proof Paint: Apply a damp-proof paint to the affected area to create a barrier against moisture.
Tanking: Consider tanking (applying a waterproof layer) to basements or areas below ground level.
Damp-Proofing: If rising damp is the issue, a damp-proof course (DPC) injection might be necessary.
5. Prevent Future Damp
Maintain Ventilation: Continue to ventilate your home regularly to prevent moisture buildup.
Monitor Humidity: Use a dehumidifier or moisture meter to monitor humidity levels and take action if they become too high.
Seal Gaps: Seal any gaps or cracks in walls to prevent water ingress.
The Kilbury Conservation team primarily deal with any damp related issues – more so of late, as we've been helping many Gloucestershire social housing companies deal with dampness in their housing stock.
Implementing preservation work on Listed buildings, where traditional techniques are used, needs specialised skill sets, so contact the specialists today.