Dealing with a Wet Mouldy Timber Frame during Construction, with Cindy

Dec 2, 2024

In this engaging discussion, a designer shares her experience tackling the challenges of a wet timber frame during construction. The conversation highlights the serious issue of mould growth from prolonged moisture and the necessary remediation steps to ensure safety and durability. The emotional journey of managing these construction hurdles is unveiled, emphasizing the importance of thorough documentation and communication among team members. It also touches on the balance of stress management and sustainable building practices in the face of unpredictable weather.

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ANECDOTE

Wet Timber Frame

Cindy's timber frame was exposed to excessive rain, leading to mold growth and the need for remediation.
The prolonged wet weather in Port Macquarie caused delays and damage, requiring timber replacement and mold treatment.

ADVICE

Test for Moisture and Mold

Test timber for moisture and mold after it dries out to assess the damage.
Use a moisture meter and mold testing kits to identify affected areas.

ADVICE

Document Everything

Document all concerns, conversations, and decisions regarding the issue.
This provides a record for future reference and potential disputes.

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Hello! This is Episode 342, and in it, I’m talking with HOME Method member, Cindy.

Cindy is a HOME Method member, and she’s also a designer and Thermal Performance Assessor, who has designed her own new home which is currently under construction.

[For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/342]

Cindy was on the podcast about 5 months ago in Episodes 321 and 322, giving us her first update on her project, and sharing her design phase and early construction experience.

She’s back to talk about some of the challenges that weather has brought for the construction process: in particular dealing with a wet timber frame that has grown mould, and needs to be remediated before the project continues.

We’ve had a few members inside HOME Method navigating this challenge this year, as the weather has been wet for long periods of time in many parts of Australia, and that can wreak havoc on an exposed timber frame of a home during construction.

Timber can absorb moisture and water, and then over time, with the right conditions, grow mould which impregnates in the timber itself.

The worst thing that can happen is that the frame is not allowed to dry out, or the mould is not remediated, and the home gets lined internally and externally regardless of its dampness or condition.

This can be incredibly detrimental for the health of the occupants and the durability of the home long-term. And, unfortunately, it happens far too often in home construction.

So, I think you’ll find Cindy’s process of navigating this specific challenge on her project super informative.

Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus links to Cindy’s previous project updates on the podcast, as well as information on the resources we discuss and photos of Cindy’s home, you can find all of that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/342.

Now, let’s dive in!

SHOW NOTES:

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RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST:

For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/342

Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan

Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/

Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.

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