Termite Damage Repairs Arundel

Repairing termite-damaged wall framing

Most of the termite repairs we carry out are in walls. Termites usually enter at ground level and work up through the bottom plate and into the studs, often leaving the outer skin of the timber and the paint on the plasterboard intact.

The usual repair is to remove the lining over the affected length, cut out the damaged plate and stud sections and fix new framing to the sound timber either side. Once the frame is checked for straightness, the wall is re-sheeted and finished.

Termite damage in the roof space

Roof repairs depend on how the roof is framed. A pitched roof with rafters and ceiling joists is repaired differently from a trussed roof, where each truss is an engineered component.

Where the damage has affected the ceiling, we can replace the plasterboard ceiling linings and cornice once the framing is repaired.

From inspection to written quote

At the site visit we look at the affected rooms and, where possible, the roof space and subfloor. If you have a building and pest report, it helps to have it on hand so we can check every item listed.

The written quote sets out the expected scope, what is excluded and how any concealed damage will be handled.

Damage you cannot see until the wall is opened

A short length of damaged skirting can sit in front of a bottom plate that is eaten for several metres. The reverse also happens, where visible damage turns out to be limited.

• Plasterboard can hide damaged studs and plates
• Skirting and architraves are often the first visible sign
• Roof and subfloor damage may only show in an inspection
• Costs depend on how far the damage runs, not just what is visible

Engineering and structural repairs

We will tell you early if a repair is likely to need an engineer. This mainly applies to trusses, beams, lintels over wide openings, bearers and posts, or when damage is widespread across a section of the house.

Working with your pest manager

Repairs are carried out once the property has been treated by a licensed pest management professional. If we find live termites once a wall is opened, we stop and let you know so your pest manager can deal with it before work continues.

Repairs after a building and pest inspection

If you are buying or selling, a building and pest report may list termite damage that needs repairing. We can inspect the listed areas and provide a written quote for the repair work.

Replacing load-bearing timbers

Load-bearing timber cannot simply be cut out and patched. We set up temporary props, remove the damaged section and install new timber or a specified alternative, then check the structure has settled back correctly before the props come out.

• Temporary propping during the repair
• Replacement members sized to suit the load
• Engineer's detail where the repair is structural
• Checks for movement in doors, ceilings and linings afterwards