British Gypsum - Guidance on: Water damage to walls and ceilings
Recent flooding has again highlighted
the issue of water-damage to homes and business
premises. Plasterboard and plaster manufacturer, British
Gypsum, has issued the following general advice:
“The effect of water damage to either masonry or
timber/metal stud structures will depend on the extent
and severity of the wetting, and will generally be
difficult to assess. With all but the most superficial
of damage, it is advisable to arrange for a professional
survey to be carried out to assess the extent of the
damage and advise on possible remedial action, prior to
carrying out any work.
The following recommendations should be noted when
treating water damaged walls and ceilings:
Plasterboard walls and ceilings
Any plasterboard (other than special moisture-resistant
grade) that has been subjected to water,particularly
where ‘bowing’, mould growth or delamination of the
surface paper has occurred, should generally be removed
and replaced with an equivalent Gyproc product to
maintain the original performance.
In some instances of only superficial or surface
wetting, it is possible that the board may dry out to
its original specification, although water staining or
mould growth may occur at a later stage. It is
recommended that professional advice is sought before
treating any area where mould growth is present.
In the case of cavity stud walls or suspended ceilings,
the cavity should be inspected, and consideration given
to possible mould growth problems. Metal components and
accessories used in wall and ceiling construction are
generally galvanised to a recognised British Standard to
prevent rusting, although areas of cut or drilled metal
should be inspected for rust if prolonged exposure has
occurred.
Due to its water repellent qualities, Isowool Insulation
installed within the cavity will generally retain its
properties when it has dried out, provided that it has
retained its form.
In all cases, the cavity and its components must be
allowed to dry out thoroughly before re-boarding.
Plastered walls
British Gypsum generally recommends that any gypsum
plaster that has been affected is removed and replaced
with an appropriate Thistle plaster product in order to
maintain the original performance.
Where mould growth is present, or where backgrounds have
been extensively wetted and contain salts which may
contaminate new plaster, professional advice should be
sought and any necessary remedial treatment carried out
prior to replastering.
Where only the finish coat plaster has been affected, it
may be possible to re-finish as necessary with an
appropriate Thistle finish coat plaster, although
treated areas could still be affected by staining, salt
contamination or mould growth, which may require further
remedial treatment.
Email: paul.smith@bpb.com
Arundel Jones Associates Ltd
Hill Farm, Linton Hill, Maidstone, Kent ME17 4AL
Tel : 01622 745333
news@buildingdesign.co.uk
Registered in England and Wales No. 07334149
News Categories : Plaster, Plasterboard and
Drylining Systems
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Plaster,
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