Termites inside a timber frame home
TIMBER Frame homes can cause a multitude of problems for owners, a leading homes website said today.
From creep crawlies to condensation – and burglars – the construction of timber frame homes is under fire today.
“Timber frame implies a sturdy large sectional timber framework. However, most modern “timber frame” new homes are constructed using factory-made timber panels that are then nailed together on the site,” said brand-newhomes.co.uk.
“Modern day timber frame components are preservative treated. However this is only fully effective if the timber is not drilled or cut. All cut ends should be re treated with preservative! It is somewhat inevitable that some components will require “site alteration” to suit as-built site sizes and site tolerances. It is also a moot point whether the timber treatment offers full long term protection against all known possible detrimental effects to timber. Timber fence posts are treated but can and do still rot,” said the site which favours concrete home construction.
The warning article goes on: “The modern timber frame home is not the same as the older type of timber framed buildings built by our Tudor ancestors consisting of large section 8” x 8” solid hardwood Oak frames that have stood the test of time. Modern mass produced timber frame homes have been built since the 1970’s and the very oldest are still less than 40 years old.
“The timber frame itself is normally “guaranteed” by the manufacturer for various periods ranging from 10 to 40 years. It is a commonly perceived opinion within the industry that 25 –30 years is a reasonably expected life span for a softwood timber framed building. This is the same period as the average length of mortgage. No one would buy a leasehold property with 30 years left on the lease.”
Termites that originate from mainland Europe have recently been found in some counties in the UK, says the organisation.
Insects and Dry Rot
The warning continues: “They are white ant-like insects that destroy timber. Termites eat 24 hours a day 7 days a week and have caused billions of dollars worth of damage to property and homes in America. Termites and other insects don’t eat concrete or brick, so termite protection and repair costs are not necessary or a concern in a traditionally-built masonry new home.”
The advocate of concrete homes also insists: “To lessen the possibility of wet rot it is generally accepted that the timber frame should not be covered until the moisture content is at 20% or below. This is when the thermal insulation, vapour barrier and plaster boarding can be commenced.
“Insurers increasingly include a general provision that excludes dry and wet rot. Hardly any policies cover damage caused by vermin, but damage by fire and flood is normally included in the cover provided. Termite damage is not covered by UK insurance policies. Loss or damage caused by damp is generally excluded and poor maintenance of your house can actually invalidate your policy.”
Burglars
The warning adds: “Apartments are particularly vulnerable (to break-ins) if built in timber frame. Access can be gained via the stud walls in the communal staircase area or as is quite common, through the roof space via the loft hatch accesses in the staircase area and top floor flats. The party wall fire breaks are formed in either curtains of wire-reinforced fire resistant mineral wool or timber frame panels clad with 12mm fire resistant board – neither much of a match for the burglar who will be able to break in again, unnoticed by anyone.”
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