Restoring Integrity to a Rotten Floor in Stafford

How We Repaired Rotten Joists, Eliminated Mould, and Replaced Floor boards for an Enhanced, Solid Foundation

When it comes to home maintenance, structural integrity is paramount. Recently, we were called in for a job where underlying issues of rot and mould had compromised the flooring in a customer's home. Over time, wear and tear can cause timber joists to weaken, especially in spaces prone to dampness. Left unchecked, these issues can worsen, impacting not just the flooring but the overall safety and comfort of the home. Here’s how we approached this project to ensure a lasting, high-quality solution.

Step 1: Assessing the Damage and Identifying Rotten Joists

The customer asked us to investigate due to areas of flooring which were starting to cave in. Upon inspection, we found that some of the original joists had deteriorated beyond repair. Joists are the structural support beams that sit beneath the flooring, providing stability. In this case, moisture build-up had caused rot to set in, compromising the strength of the joists and the safety of the floor above. A number of the joists had almost completely deteriorated in areas, and so we carefully removed the affected sections of damaged joists.

Step 2: Treating and Removing Mould

Mould is a common issue in damp environments, and without proper treatment, it can quickly return even after removal. We thoroughly removed all the mould, cleaning and treating the affected areas to eliminate any remaining traces of mould. Using specialised mould-removal solutions, we treated all impacted areas to ensure they were protected from potential future growth.

Step 3: Replacing and Levelling the Joists

With the damaged joists removed, our next priority was to replace them with fresh timber to restore the structure’s integrity. Each new joist was precisely measured, cut, and fitted to match the original layout, ensuring even support across the entire floor. The end of each joist was also wrapped in damp proof membrane to provide long-lasting protection in the areas most susceptible to damp. We took extra care to level the joists, as an uneven base would affect the installation and longevity of new flooring above. The customer now has a strong, stable foundation that will support the new flooring for years to come.

Step 4: Installing New Tongue and Groove Flooring

Once the space was mould-free, and the joists were in place, it was time to install new tongue and groove floor boards. Tongue and groove flooring distributes weight evenly across the joists and is less prone to warping, which can be an issue in areas susceptible to dampness. Each board was carefully laid, ensuring an even fit and finish.

Final Result: A Solid, Long-Lasting Floor

After the installation, we double-checked the entire area for stability and ensured every piece of floor board was securely in place. The result? A perfectly level, mould-free floor with robust joists and peace of mind for the homeowners.

Why Addressing Structural Issues Early is Key

This project highlights the importance of tackling structural issues as soon as they’re discovered. A rotten floor, damaged joists and mould don’t just affect the aesthetics—they pose serious safety risks and can lead to more costly repairs down the line if left untreated. By addressing these issues early, homeowners can save themselves the stress of larger structural repairs and enjoy a safer, healthier home.

If you’ve noticed any signs of rot, uneven floors, or persistent dampness, it may be time to inspect your home’s structural elements. At HD Building & Landscaping, we’re dedicated to providing durable, reliable solutions that ensure your home’s foundation remains solid. Get in touch with us today to discuss how we can help reinforce and restore your space.