I think I know the answer, but I need confirmation either way...
I employed a builder to remove an existing timber floor in my 1890 terrace. This decision was carefully considered following some serious damp issues.
Drains have been installed to remove water that tended to accumulate under the timbers due to a disparity in levels with the neighbouring house (see previous posts).
However, we are now at the stage of laying the DPC and insulation. Let me list my concerns. Pictures are included for reference.
1. At no point has the MOT1 hardcore or sand blinding layer been leveled out. A whacker plate was used for about 10 minutes on the hardcore layer, but not on the sand. As a result, the both the hardcore and sand layer is very bumpy and uneven.
2. The builder purchased 120mm thick insulation boards. These are too thick to allow the correct level, and so he has attempted to cut them in half. As well as being messy and ineffective this has left the boards broken, uneven and with the protective layer on one side only.
3. During works, a stud wall was propped up on blocks of wood. The wood sits on bare earth. He has cut the DPC around these block to fit...
I'm becoming increasingly concerned of a lack of care and attention to detail. As I understand things, the hardcore layer should be level and completely flat before being blinded with sand. In addition, the insulation boards should have an intact moisture barrier layer on both sides and should lay completely flat on the DPC without any rocking. And I am sure that the blocks holding the wall shouldn't be like that.
All thoughts and comments appreciated. It should be noted, that, in fairness, the builder walked out this morning and there was talk of "getting the right insulation", but my comments and concerns have not been answered by him, hence my post here.
Rich.
I employed a builder to remove an existing timber floor in my 1890 terrace. This decision was carefully considered following some serious damp issues.
Drains have been installed to remove water that tended to accumulate under the timbers due to a disparity in levels with the neighbouring house (see previous posts).
However, we are now at the stage of laying the DPC and insulation. Let me list my concerns. Pictures are included for reference.
1. At no point has the MOT1 hardcore or sand blinding layer been leveled out. A whacker plate was used for about 10 minutes on the hardcore layer, but not on the sand. As a result, the both the hardcore and sand layer is very bumpy and uneven.
2. The builder purchased 120mm thick insulation boards. These are too thick to allow the correct level, and so he has attempted to cut them in half. As well as being messy and ineffective this has left the boards broken, uneven and with the protective layer on one side only.
3. During works, a stud wall was propped up on blocks of wood. The wood sits on bare earth. He has cut the DPC around these block to fit...
I'm becoming increasingly concerned of a lack of care and attention to detail. As I understand things, the hardcore layer should be level and completely flat before being blinded with sand. In addition, the insulation boards should have an intact moisture barrier layer on both sides and should lay completely flat on the DPC without any rocking. And I am sure that the blocks holding the wall shouldn't be like that.
All thoughts and comments appreciated. It should be noted, that, in fairness, the builder walked out this morning and there was talk of "getting the right insulation", but my comments and concerns have not been answered by him, hence my post here.
Rich.