Hidden Timber Problems
Hidden Timber Problems | Roof Replacement | Roofing | Lancing
Beneath a weather-worn exterior, unseen timber decay can quietly erode the safety of your home. HEP’s local team in Lancing is trained to uncover those hidden battens, beams and rafters that other installers might miss, using detailed surveys and time-served carpentry skills to diagnose the true extent of the damage. By exposing the root of the problem before a single tile is lifted, we save you from short-term fixes and give you a clear, honest picture of what your roof really needs.
When repair is no longer the safest or most cost-effective route, our craftsmen carry out a full roof replacement that restores strength, energy efficiency and curb appeal in one streamlined project. From responsibly sourced timber to premium membranes and tiles matched to Lancing’s coastal climate, every component is fitted with precision and backed by HEP’s warranty. All waste is removed the same day, and your new roof is finished to look as good as it performs—ready to shield your home for decades to come.
FAQs
What are “hidden timber problems” in a roof and how are they detected during a replacement project?
Hidden timber problems are defects—such as rot, fungal decay, insect infestation, or structural cracks—that cannot be seen until the tiles, felt, or battens are removed. During a roof replacement in Lancing, our team carries out a full strip-off inspection. We probe rafters, joists, ridge and hip timbers with moisture meters and awls, check for powdery frass from wood-boring beetles, and assess deflection or bowing. Digital photographs and written reports are produced on the same day so you can clearly understand the condition of the timber before we proceed with repairs or replacements.
Why are timber issues so common in Lancing roofs?
Lancing’s coastal position exposes roofs to salt-laden winds, higher relative humidity, and sudden weather changes, all of which accelerate moisture ingress. When water penetrates cracked tiles or aging felt, it is absorbed by structural timber. Warm, damp wood provides an ideal environment for dry rot, wet rot, and Common Furniture Beetle. Over decades, even small leaks can create extensive hidden damage. That’s why we treat timber inspections as standard procedure on every roof replacement in the BN15 postcode area.
How will discovering rotten or infested timber affect the cost and timeline of my roof replacement?
If hidden timber problems are found, two main factors change: 1) Additional materials—new rafters, trusses, treated battens, or metal reinforcement plates—and 2) extra labour to remove and rebuild the affected sections. A typical three-bedroom semi in Lancing may see an extra 10–20 % added to the quote if 20 % of rafters need replacement, and the programme might extend by 1–3 working days. We price transparently: you receive a revised fixed-cost schedule before any extra work begins, so there are no surprises.
Can damaged timbers be repaired, or must they always be replaced?
Minor surface decay or localised insect damage can often be treated rather than replaced. We use epoxy resin splice repairs, preservative pastes, and structural timber plates to restore local strength when the affected area is less than 15 % of the member’s cross-section. Where rot has penetrated deeper or the timber carries a critical load—such as principal rafters or truss chords—full replacement with pressure-treated, graded softwood is safer and meets BS 5534 and Local Authority Building Control (LABC) standards.
Will my building regulations approval and warranty still be valid if hidden timber repairs are needed?
Yes. All structural alterations are notified to Adur & Worthing Building Control. We supply structural drawings or engineer’s calculations where required. On completion, you receive a compliance certificate and a 10-year insurance-backed workmanship guarantee that specifically includes any timber repairs we have carried out. Manufacturer warranties on new battens, membranes, and tiles remain intact because we use compatible, certified systems.
What can I do after my new roof is installed to prevent future timber problems?
1) Ventilation: Ensure eaves and ridge vents stay clear so moisture can escape the loft space. 2) Guttering: Keep gutters and downpipes free of debris to stop overflow onto fascia and rafters. 3) Roof checks: Schedule visual inspections every two years—or after severe storms—to spot slipped tiles early. 4) Loft monitoring: Use a hygrometer in the loft; humidity should stay below 60 %. Install extra insulation carefully so it doesn’t block airflow paths. 5) Pest treatment: Consider a preventative insecticidal treatment if your property is near woodland or you have had beetle issues before. Following these steps will prolong the life of your new roof and its timber structure in Lancing’s challenging coastal climate.