marmalade

Without going in to too much detail onto why this happened, for one reason or another, the site has been left exposed to the elements since August. We’ve build up to the first floor level, however sadly, it's not been covered via tarps/a tin roof Subfloor, internal blocks, timber joists and insulation (Knauff Dritherm 32 Cavity Slabs) has all been exposed to the rain The steels show signs of light rust A few images attached What I’m trying to understand is 1) The risks and remedial actions required Which of these are minor, which may cause major issues e.g. Water absorption into the building fabric causing mould in the future 2) What remedial actions are needed? Protect the site - We’ve agreed to split the costs to call in a scaffolder to install the tinroof which should complete next week. Replace the insulation - Me and the builder have agreed to replace the insulation (although I’m being told we only need to replace the top segments) Dry out the site – Not really sure if demudifiers will do the job/how this is possible without waiting for months? 3) What should a good cavity wall and well insulated home look like It’s a brick and block structure. There is an airgap left at the DPC level although this currently looks to have a lot of debris with in. Cavity is fully filled with insulation (32 Knauf Cavity Slab Insulation and 150mm Celotex to be used for the ground floor). Steel wall ties. I see differing advice about leaving an air gap/not leaving an air gap.

Hey, hi, my name is Marmalade (you may debate if this is my real name or not – it will be a quick discussion I’m sure) Looking forward to diving into this knowledge base on the friendliest and most helpful self-build forum in the UK. Currently in the midst of a self-build project, it’s been an interesting journey so far, especially as this is all new to me. (Thank goodness for the help of AI to save me from hours of searching through websites) My land purchase is finalised, waiting for the land registry documents, I’ve got my insurances, builder contract, building control, structural warranty and self-build mortgage partners all in place. Some specific topics, challenges and areas of weakness are mostly related to the actual build and verification we’re doing the right things: -Utility connection – specifically Drainage/Waste water -Insulation - My site wasn’t covered over the past few months while the cavities were open with insulation inserted – this has been the biggest source of stress and mostly why I’m here! If any one can suggest where I can start posting on these, that would be incredible Thanks for accepting me to join this community, Marmalade (not my real name 😉)