Advice From UK Timber Frame Association

Advice from UK Timber Frame Association on flood information sources for householders.

Advice for householders worried about (or suffering from) the effects of flooding has been issued by UKTFA's Chief Executive Bryan Woodley.

He says " The misery of flooding is once more with us - and it looks as if continuing global changes make the possibility of flooding a more and more regular phenomenon.

It is vital therefore that householders in affected areas have access to the best advice in preparing for and dealing with floods, in order to minimise the heartbreak of damage to homes and businesses- and the cost of repairs." Mr Woodley continued " The UK Timber Frame Association wholeheartedly recommends that householders consult two independent websites - the CIRIA website www.ciria.org.uk/flooding and the Department of the Environment Floodline website www.environment-agency.gov.uk/floodline These are both excellent websites giving practical and unbiased advice to householders including: limiting flood damage; who to contact in the event of flooding; seeking professional advice; financial implications and advice; putting repairs in place once damage has occurred." Mr Woodley also pointed out that while all building types suffer from flood damage, timber frame construction can offer some advantages to flood -stricken householders, specifically because as it can be quicker to dry out, the process of repair and redecoration can begin as soon as possible.

He said: "Timber frame construction is the world's most widely used building system - and perhaps its most researched.

It performs well in severe weather conditions, as its popularity in North America, Scandinavia and Scotland attests.

Following flood damage in East Sussex two years age, research carried out by frameCHECK, the independent timber frame assessment service offered by TRADA, (Timber Research and Development Association) reported: 'At the time of assessment the timber frame elements had been air drying for two or three weeks with dehumidifiers in use at times.

Most timber frame elements were below 20% moisture content, therefore the positive action of reconstruction was able to start.' A Chartered Building Surveyor of Lambor Associates, Brighton, who was also present at the frameCHECK confirmed these findings saying: 'From the sample of houses inspected.

the timber frame work which had been fully exposed seemed to be drying out quicker than the fair faced brick and block work when subjected to drying from dehumidifiers.' In conclusion Mr Woodley said : " In the midst of flood misery it is important that householders have the best advice; and that they are re reassured about the long-term durability of their homes.

I can state with confidence that provided a timber frame is dried out within a few weeks it is unlikely that it will be adversely affected by flooding.

A recent report from the Office of the Deputy Prime minister entitled 'Preparing for Floods' www.safetyodpm.gov.uk/bregs/floods) supports this view, as does the section on the CIRIA website (www.ciria.org.uk) on Specific Repairs to Wood." A full colour, four page consumer booklet on timber frame housing called "Timber frame - the choice is yours" is available FREE by calling UKTFA on 01259 272140 or emailing office@timber-frame.org.

As well as user-friendly information on comfort and costs, building and environmental issues, and quality assurance, the booklet has a handy list of "FAQs" answering the most popular consumer queries about timber frame houses.

Back to top