Meassures to minimise material degradation
Contents |
[edit] Introduction
All building materials can suffer from deterioration and decay if they are not protected or maintained correctly. Some common scenarios that can lead to the degradation of construction materials are:
For more information see: Degradation of construction materials.
Some measures that can be put in place to minimise the early degradation of materials are descibed below.
[edit] Timber
Timber can deteriorate due to a range of circumstances. It is particularly susceptible to wet rot, dry rot, woodworm and shrinkage.
Wet and dry rot:
- Address any signs of damp.
- Apply anti-fungal treatment.
- Ensure there is good ventilation.
- Apply paint that excludes moisture.
- Remove and replace any infected timber.
Woodworm:
- Apply insecticide treatment.
- Address any signs of damp.
- Ensure there is good ventilation.
- Remove and replace any weakened timber.
Shrinkage:
- Allow timber to acclimatise to the conditions it will be installed in before installation.
[edit] Stone
Stone can be susceptible to deterioration from acid rain. To minimise decay, the following measures can be implemented:
- Apply specialist treatment.
- Remove and replace damaged stones.
For more information see: Defects in stone.
[edit] Concrete
Concrete is susceptible to sulfate attacks. To minimise the damage the following steps can be taken:
[edit] Polymers
Polymers like uPVC are easily damaged by exposure to UV light. In sunlit exposed areas, it is advisable to use polymers that have a UV-inhibiting additive.
[edit] Steel
Corrosion is the main contributing factor to the degradation of steel. The following steps can be taken to minimise rust:
- Galvanising which consists of a hot-dip zinc coating.
- Painting which excludes moisture.
- Stainless steel can be used for areas exposed to high moisture content.
[edit] General
The degradation of all materials can be induced by stresses from loading forces. Materials should be designed by taking into consideration their strength and weaknesses and the maximum loading and bearing capacities of their structures.
Frost action can also cause damage. This can be prevented by quality control of materials and components, as well as workmanship on site, appropriate ventilation and drainage, the prevention of condensation and suitable maintenance.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Building Regulations.
- Construction materials.
- Defects.
- Degradation of construction materials
- Dry rot.
- Materials on site.
- Quality control.
- Schedule of defects.
- Testing construction materials.
- Timber preservation.
- Truth to materials.
[edit] External references
BTEC National Construction - Pearson
Featured articles and news
Gregor Harvie argues that AI is state-sanctioned theft of IP.
Many resources for visitors aswell as new features for members.
Using technology to empower communities
The Community data platform; capturing the DNA of a place and fostering participation, for better design.
Heat pump and wind turbine sound calculations for PDRs
MCS publish updated sound calculation standards for permitted development installations.
Homes England creates largest housing-led site in the North
Successful, 34 hectare land acquisition with the residential allocation now completed.
Scottish apprenticeship training proposals
General support although better accountability and transparency is sought.
The history of building regulations
A story of belated action in response to crisis.
Moisture, fire safety and emerging trends in living walls
How wet is your wall?
Current policy explained and newly published consultation by the UK and Welsh Governments.
British architecture 1919–39. Book review.
Conservation of listed prefabs in Moseley.
Energy industry calls for urgent reform.
Heritage staff wellbeing at work survey.
A five minute introduction.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Showcasing the very best electrotechnical and engineering services for half a century.
Welsh government consults on HRBs and reg changes
Seeking feedback on a new regulatory regime and a broad range of issues.
CIOB Client Guide (2nd edition) March 2025
Free download covering statutory dutyholder roles under the Building Safety Act and much more.