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Timber Repair Specialists - Peter Cox
Traditional construction techniques in the UK use structural timbers and these are at risk of woodworm infestation and in particular fungal decay.
Building defects from a lack of general maintenance will allow moisture to penetrate into the fabric of the building which can then expose timber to moisture, causing deterioration and severe damage.
This is particularly common for beam ends or other structural timbers that are embedded in masonry walls. Timber in contact with damp masonry is particularly susceptible to dry rot, but where roofs or lead gutters have been leaking, severe wet rot can occur. This can result in whole sections of timber needing to be repaired or replaced entirely. These timbers are often large or historical, so a solution that does not involve complete replacement is required.
Our surveyors are able to assess the extent of damage, and provide recommendations for repairs, while dealing with the root cause of the problem. We are able to provide expert timber repairs, as well as timber resin splices (TRS) for structural timber.
Peter Cox have been repairing timber for decades, and have vast experience working with homeowners, property managers and commercial clients, so whether it's a barn conversion or part of a regeneration project for a historic property, we are here to assist.
Timber Repair Surveys
In order to carry out timber repairs, a professional surveyor will need to carry out a survey to check the condition of structural and decorative timber within a building. They will identify any signs of fungal decay, woodworm infestations or structural concerns that may affect the structural integrity, stability or durability of timber.
Damp is often the main cause of timber decay - so it is important to fully inspect the exterior and interior of a property in order to find the source of moisture as well. They will then provide you with a survey report outlining their findings, how to solve the root cause of the problem, along with details on the timber repairs required. This may include timber resin repairs, or for severe damage the whole section of timber being replaced.
Our surveyors are typically CSTDB or CSRT qualified, and our methods for surveying and carrying out specialist timber repairs are accredited by numerous trade bodies. We can work with structural engineers to come up with a specification where required.
What is a Timber Resin Splice? (TRS)
A timber splice, or a timber resin splice (TRS) is a repair method for damaged structural timber, meaning the whole length does not need to be replaced. A new timber section is bonded to the existing timber and fixed into place using mechanical fixings and epoxy resins. Repairs are made in-situ, minimising disruption and the costs of replacing the whole beam.
It can be used to strengthen timber, or replace damaged sections. The new timber can be stained and the repairs are concealed to match the original timber, meaning it will match the original aesthetics without visible plates or bolts.
Timber Repairs
Peter Cox has vast experience in timber repairs, so no matter the type of building involved, we can provide you with expert advice and solutions.
Our experienced technicians will carry out insecticidal and fungicidal treatments where required, and will provide repairs to fit in with the architectural style of the property, this can range from basic repairs to specialist joinery.
These include:
- Timber resin repairs
- Timber resin splices
- Strengthening beams
- Joint end repairs
- Full joist replacement
- Wall plate renewal
- Replacing skirting, architraves, and interior trims
- Lintel replacement
- Timber framing
Our experienced technicians can carry out all types of timber repairs for domestic, commercial and historic properties.
Timber Resin Splice (TRS) Repairs - Our Process
When timbers have lost structural integrity, sections can be repaired with a timber resin splice bonded using epoxy resin. The timber splice gains strength through reinforced bars hidden within the timber. Once the epoxy resin has set, the timber will retain the original bearing strength, and the replacement timber can be made to match the original aesthetics.
Once a timber survey has been carried out, and recommendations for work are accepted, our experienced technicians can begin repairs.
Replacement timber sections come in various sizes for all types of timber resin splice repairs.
Preparation
The first step includes carrying out repairs to remove any sources of moisture through damp proofing, ventilation improvements or fixing building defects. If these are not carried out, timber could be at risk of further timber decay.
Where required, the section to be repaired or structural frame is supported, before the decayed section of timber is removed and cut back to sound timber. Slots are made in the existing timber so the TRS system can be inserted and then bonded using resin.
Installation
The new timber resin splice can be created in situ or prefabricated with factory fitted shear connector rods. Ends are wrapped in damp proof membrane to protect them where they are in contact with masonry. The new and old timbers are brought together as tightly as possible and the reinforcement bars slid into the pre-cut channels in the old timber, thus providing a weight bearing joint.
Bonding
Once in place, a bonding resin is applied to create a seamless concealed joint. Once the resin has cured the TRS system retains the original strength and can handle compressive loads. Where required we will reinforce weak joists and repair stress cracks, splits and fissures.
Cosmetic Repairs
Once the resin has cured and been decorated, they will be indistinguishable from the original timber, whilst retaining strength and aesthetics for the foreseeable future. This is perfect when working on listed or historic properties where specifications requiring the aesthetic features of the original timber are required.
In more complex repairs it may not be possible to replace the decayed timber and resin is poured inside timber shuttering. If required, once part set it can then be carved and moulded to match the remaining sections of timber.
Benefits of Timber Resin Splice Repairs
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Minimises Disturbance: - Timber resin repairs remove the need to replace whole sections of timber, meaning that ceilings and floors may not need to be removed to repair the damaged section.
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Cost effective: - Timber resin repairs are often cheaper than a full timber replacement, and can be carried out quicker. Some timbers and in particular bressumer beams can be so large that replacements are unavailable or uneconomic. If not given the option of a TRS, the customer is forced down the route of steel beams, which may not be aesthetically pleasing.
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Strong Repairs: - The bonded resin and mechanical rods create a repair that retains the original strength of timber, while being able to handle compressive loads.
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Aesthetics: - The repair joint is concealed, creating a seamless flush finish. This makes it a valuable option when carrying out repairs on historic and listed properties, where visible steel plates or bolts are not wanted.
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Environmentally Friendly: - These repairs can save existing timber that would otherwise need to be completely replaced.
Timber resin repairs will retain the original appearance of the timber, avoiding unsightly steel plates and bolts.
Why Trust Peter Cox for Timber Repairs?
- Decades of property preservation expertise in timber treatments and repairs for fungal decay and woodworm infestations.
- Nationwide network of local branches, meaning local qualified surveyors and technicians in your area.
- We are a Which? Trusted Trader member
- Rated ‘Excellent’ on Trustpilot with more than 2,500 independent reviews.
Timber Repairs FAQs:
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What are epoxy resin timber resin repairs?
An epoxy resin repair is another name for a timber resin splice, and involves attaching two sections of timber together with a mechanical fixing, before epoxy resin is poured into the void, bonding the two pieces of timber together via the embedded steel threaded rod. The process is typically less invasive and more cost-effective than replacing the whole timber, and will preserve the historic features of the timber.
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Can you repair wood with epoxy?
Yes, epoxy resins can be used for various reasons from structural repairs to filling in gaps, cracks and other cosmetic fixes. For structural repairs you should get in touch with a professional and experienced company.
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What does splice timber mean?
A splice joint is the process of joining two sections of timber together, usually because you require longer lengths than available, or because sections of timber have become damaged and need to be replaced.
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How do you repair rotten timber joists?
The first step is to remove the source of moisture causing the timber to become rotten. Then rotten joists are cut back to sound timber, and new sections of timber are cut to size replacing the old timber via a timber resin splice. Joist ends in contact with masonry will need to be wrapped with damp proof membrane to prevent future moisture ingress. Floorboards can then be refitted.
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What is timber resin repair?
Timber resin repair is the structural repair technique for replacing sections of damaged timber and replacing these with a new section, bonded with epoxy resin. This is cost-effective and removes the need to replace full sections of timber.
Next Steps
Our Services
Find out more about our range of timber treatments
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