FLOORS
Where the floor has been constructed over an earth 'solum', moisture will rise towards a warmer interior. If floor boards become damp for this or any other reason, lift any linoleum or plastic covering and allow them to dry out, after checking for signs of rot. If it is present, be prepared to waterproof the sub-floor area by 'tanking' before replacing new boarding.
To help prevent this problem, no covering should be stuck down on a basic timber floor and carpets with rubber backing should not be used.
Allow air to circulate by keeping floors unsealed and dry and minimise damp problems by keeping washing to a minimum, avoiding wetting the bases of walls and columns.
Do not use any wax or coatings other than linseed oil on flagstone or clay tiling.
Marble flooring should only be dust-mopped.
Timber platforms below pews may fail in places if previous cutting-out for service pipework, etc. has not been properly supported. Do not allow similar work to be done without inspecting it before the boards are replaced.
Do not use salt or sand to protect external steps from frost and ice. Both can damage vulnerable floors if carried inside.
OTHER ITEMS
Memorials, Wall Plaques and Stained Glass should be protected from impact during building work and anything not stored away that is fragile or valuable should be recorded.
Organs are vulnerable to dust and must be carefully protected under dust proof sheeting when such conditions are expected. They can also be made unplayable if water gets inside and the organist should be alert to possible drips from water penetration overhead.
FLOORS
Where the floor has been constructed over an earth 'solum', moisture will rise towards a warmer interior. If floor boards become damp for this or any other reason, lift any linoleum or plastic covering and allow them to dry out, after checking for signs of rot. If it is present, be prepared to waterproof the sub-floor area by 'tanking' before replacing new boarding.
To help prevent this problem, no covering should be stuck down on a basic timber floor and carpets with rubber backing should not be used.
Allow air to circulate by keeping floors unsealed and dry and minimise damp problems by keeping washing to a minimum, avoiding wetting the bases of walls and columns.
Do not use any wax or coatings other than linseed oil on flagstone or clay tiling.
Marble flooring should only be dust-mopped.
Timber platforms below pews may fail in places if previous cutting-out for service pipework, etc. has not been properly supported. Do not allow similar work to be done without inspecting it before the boards are replaced.
Do not use salt or sand to protect external steps from frost and ice. Both can damage vulnerable floors if carried inside.
OTHER ITEMS
Memorials, Wall Plaques and Stained Glass should be protected from impact during building work and anything not stored away that is fragile or valuable should be recorded.
Organs are vulnerable to dust and must be carefully protected under dust proof sheeting when such conditions are expected. They can also be made unplayable if water gets inside and the organist should be alert to possible drips from water penetration overhead.