Structure Remediation & Drying, 
and Remedial Construction Works

Overview: Structure Remediation & Drying, and

Remedial Construction Works

​

At EnviroBuilt, we understand that successful restoration of a building encompasses a full suite of steps and requires comprehensive remediation, structural drying and construction works to reinstate the building to a safe, stable, and resilient condition.

Unresolved moisture is one of the leading causes of ongoing mould growth, material decay, secondary damage and structural deterioration. Our focus is on identifying, addressing, and preventing these risks through evidence-based remediation, industry-led drying techniques and, construction practices.

Whether your property is timber-framed, masonry-built, or hybrid construction, our approach ensures that both the visible and hidden impacts of mould and water damage are remediated and that long-term structural health is restored.

​

Integrated & Informed Approach

​

Our strict methodology ensures that each step of the remediation and drying process meets recognised professional standards. This involves not only the removal of water and dampness but also targeted measures to remediate and stabilise the structure and prepare the building for safe re-occupancy.

​

By combining moisture detection, controlled remediation and drying techniques with qualified construction expertise, we deliver solutions that address both immediate problems and long-term resilience.

​

What We Do in Practice

​

At EnviroBuilt, we use professional monitoring to track moisture content during the drying process, ensuring that building materials are returned to equilibrium without being over-dried or there is no remaining bound (trapped) moisture in the structure leaving it vulnerable to future microbial growth. Proper stabilisation at this stage prevents secondary damage such as warping, splitting, or hidden mould colonisation within cavities.

​

Drying is not a one-size-fits-all process. Different construction types and materials respond in different ways to water damage. Timber, brick, plaster, insulation, and concrete all have unique moisture retention characteristics, and each requires tailored techniques to achieve safe, stable drying levels.

​

Our service provides full analysis of the affected materials, and we will advise you if what can be remediated and what will need replacing to ensure complete remediation from microbial contamination

​

A typical remediation & structural drying project may include:

​

• Moisture Detection & Mapping – Identifying areas of water ingress and quantifying the extent of saturation within the building structure and materials.

• Drying & Stabilisation – Applying controlled drying methodologies to remove bonded (trapped) moisture safely and effectively.

• Structural Remediation Works – Repairing, replacing, or reinforcing materials compromised by water, mould, or rot and remediate the remaining structure.

• Restoration & Finishing – Completing construction works to return the building to a safe, healthy, and fully functional state.​​​​

​

Each project concludes with a clear report detailing:​

​

• Areas of water damage identified and methods applied.

• Structural and material repairs completed.

• Verification of moisture reduction and drying levels achieved.

• Recommendations for ongoing maintenance or monitoring.

​

Reports are written in accessible language while retaining the technical depth required for insurers, landlords, or future works planning.

​

The Broader Context: Why Structural Drying Matters

​

Moisture is the silent enemy of buildings. Left untreated, it leads to mould growth, microbial contamination, and decay of structural materials. The type of construction influences how damage presents and progresses:

​

• Timber-framed buildings are vulnerable to both wet rot (caused by continuous saturation) and dry rot, most often linked with the fungus Serpula lacrymans, which spreads aggressively even through dry timber once established. Research has shown that Serpula lacrymans produces oxalic acid, accelerating wood decay and complicating remediation (Hastrup, 2005).

• Brick and masonry structures often trap damp within walls, allowing slow degradation of mortar, plaster, and finishes, while concealed cavities can harbour mould colonies invisible to the naked eye.

• Hybrid or modern construction may contain insulation, plasterboard and other construction materials that, when saturated, create ideal environments for microbial growth that is difficult to detect without professional assessment.

​

Certain fungi associated with water-damaged buildings also produce mycotoxins. For example, Stachybotrys chartarumis known to release macrocyclic trichothecenes when growing on wet materials such as drywall, timber, or insulation, creating a significant health risk if not properly remediated (Skrobot III et al., 2017). Meanwhile, studies have shown that homes affected by Serpula lacrymans and other rot fungi can contain airborne moulds and associated mycotoxins that circulate into occupied spaces (Pottier et al., 2014).

​​

If moisture remains in the structure, mould spores and toxins can continue to be released into indoor air long after surface cleaning and non-structural remediation has been completed, undermining both health outcomes and the durability of the remediation. Research confirms that long-term dampness and microbial growth are directly associated with increased respiratory illness, fatigue, and other symptoms linked to sick building syndrome (WHO, 2009; UKHSA, 2022).​

Professional drying, structure remediation and addressing the root cause, ensure buildings are not only repaired but safeguarded against recurrence. By stabilising moisture levels, remediating the space and repairing damage, we protect both occupant health and the future performance of the property.

References:

1. Hastrup, A.C. (2005) Serpula lacrymans and other brown-rot fungi: oxalic acid production and wood decay processes. USDA Forest Service Research Paper. Available at: https://research.fs.usda.gov/treesearch/20214(Accessed: 27 Aug 2025).

2. Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). (2024) Guidance for Professional Water Damage Restoration and Structural Drying. Las Vegas: IICRC.

3. Pottier, D., et al. (2014) ‘Airborne molds and mycotoxins in Serpula lacrymans-damaged homes’, International Biodeterioration & Biodegradation. 86, pp. 150–157.

4. Skrobot III, F., Diehl, S.V. & Borazjani, H. (2017) ‘Mycotoxin production by Stachybotrys chartarum on water‑damaged building materials’, BioResources, 12(3), pp. 6576–6592.

5. UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). (2022) The Burden of Disease from Indoor Damp and Mould in England.London: UKHSA.

6. World Health Organization (WHO). (2009) WHO Guidelines for Indoor Air Quality: Dampness and Mould.Copenhagen: WHO Regional Office for Europe.