At Norfolk Coast & Country Building & Renovations, we take pride in preserving the charm of
historical homes while tackling modern challenges. Recently, we received a call from a customer in South Creake, North Norfolk, whose delightful flint cottage faced significant damp issues due to local winter flooding. The absence of a damp proof course in the foundation meant that water ingress had seeped into the walls, causing extensive damage to the lime rendering and plaster.
Upon arrival, we carefully assessed the situation. The water had soaked into the walls, resulting in blown lime rendering and plaster that needed urgent attention. To ensure the flooring & fixtures & fittings remained undamaged during our repairs, we took extra precautions by removing as much as we could & protecting the remaining items with coverings.
Recognising that the skirting boards were beyond repair, we began the process of stripping them out. We then moved on to chop off the damaged plaster and render, exposing the original brickwork beneath. This step was crucial for effectively addressing the moisture issues.
To carry out the flint cottage damp repair we had to remove moisture from the walls, which began with using dehumidifiers and utilised natural air aspiration methods. This drying process was essential to ensure that our subsequent repairs would be effective and long-lasting.
Once the walls were adequately dried, we made minor repairs to the existing brickwork before proceeding with the re-rendering process. We used a mixture of sand and lime rendering cement, applying two coats to achieve the original thickness. This method not only restored the aesthetic but also allowed for breathability, crucial for a historic structure.
After the render had dried, we applied a plaster finish above the render to create a smooth
surface. Incorporating lime into the plaster mix was important, as it allowed the walls to breathe, preventing future moisture issues.
With the walls restored, we moved on to replace the old architraves and skirting boards with new ones, ensuring a fresh and cohesive look that complemented the flint cottages character.
For the final step, we focused on redecoration. We chose clay-based paint, which is ideal for old buildings as it doesn’t lock in moisture, allowing the walls to expel any future moisture naturally. This choice reflects our commitment to maintaining the integrity of the cottage while enhancing its beauty.
Owner Erin commented “Adrian & his team were fantastic, Their communication was great with regular updates and photos. They also completed high quality work in a fast turn around. Unlike other building companies Norfolk Coast & Country Building & Renovations are reliable & honest with fair pricing. I would 100% recommend their services, especially for Norfolk properties".
Treating the damp in this flint cottage in South Creake was a rewarding project that showcased the importance of addressing moisture issues in historical homes. Our careful approach ensured that the charm of the cottage was preserved while providing a solid foundation for the future.
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