Building Homes or Extensions/'Springing' floor

Advertisement

Expert: - 10/25/2008


Question
Hi

I live in a Victorian house and have been experiencing springing in the suspended timber ground floor.  The problem is in the livingroom at the front of the property and is situated at the junction of the floor with the front external wall (especially at the bay window area).  Can you tell me what the possible cause(s) is ?

Answer
Dear Lynsey,

I think I would need to inspect your floor to know what's wrong; but the problems I'd be looking for are rotten joist ends and rim joist, missing floor supports, and warped flooring.

Especially beneath a bay window, the joist ends and rim are subject to rot from a leaky window or lack of flashing or faulty installation and siding detail.

You should get someone to do an inspection. Feel free to write again when you know more.

Daniel

Building Homes or Extensions

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Daniel Humphrey

Expertise

I can answer questions about designing and building homes and outbuildings, especially for colder climates. I am expert in timber framing, but of course I also know about other kinds of residential construction techniques and materials. Because of my emphasis on using local materials and organic alternatives, I know quite about about Green Building and am willing to do the research to find out more.

Experience

I've been a timber framer for 20 years, working as a general contractor who designs and builds custom timberframe homes, working as much as possible with local organic materials, from foundation to finish. I also have expertise in designing, building, and setting up pre-fab remote camp facilities on terra firma or temperate glaciers for research and expeditions, using helicopters for support.

Education/Credentials
B.A., M.F.A.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.