Semi Restoration - Here we go.

[Keithj]

That is lovely! Warwickshire - there's a clue!

As others have said, don't do anything hasty unless you have to to save it. It doesn't look like it needs that.
We had to go for a mad scramble because a "restorer" had done some serious bodging and the structure was in danger. Luckily, we got a good expert at the start (although the firm came apart after that, and most of the skilled people left). Now we are calmly, and carefully doing the bits that could wait (and did).

I found this forum while we were in the middle of our works - just in time to prevent some classic howlers being perpetrated. There is much wisdom and help here (and a smattering of the occasional banter, too).

There are some simple rules to judge the "expert" who is advising you on structural stuff:
- If he mentions "rising damp", politely show him out.
- If he suggests "injected damp proofing", throw him out.
- If he mentions "as seen in certain TV programmes", ditto.
- If he suggests using concrete (cement), don't make any decision until consulting the folks on here about the specifics.

 

[mykul]

It is said, "things get worse before they get better". Holding the faith!

 

[worms]

That is quite wide for a French drain!

 

[Zebra]

Ooh, you've made a lovely mess there. Well, you can't make an omelette without breaking a few eggs!

 

[Penners]

All kinds of clues to the reasons for your damp, in that picture!

But you've obviously made a good start on lowering the ground level at th eback - presumably it is now lower than the internal floor?

I would also set about removing the paving that immediately abuts the side of the house. That's a sure-fire damp recipe - particularly if it's above internal floor levels. A nice French drain around the building would allow the plinth the breathe along that side wall. This will stop rain-bounce too.

 

[tobydog]

One can only assume that the budget on this semi restoration is unlimited. Look what those great old doors are being used for :shock:

 

[mykul]

Please don't mention the doors
I was suppose to get them out the way of the builders as my partner wanted them as internal doors, i will be made to suffer forever over that. Not sure if a box of chocolates and some flowers will help this time.

 

[mykul]

 

[LadyArowana]

Well done, that's looking very pretty.

 

[Penners]

Looks good, Mykul! What did you do about the damp problem, in the end?

 

[mykul]

We ended up lowering the external groundwork's as it was apparent only one wall was affected, plus it only needed lowering by a small amount. at the front it was new build so damp course was taken care of.

 

[jocelyn plummer]

Looking good!