Detached homes and terraced housing

Many of the houses built in the 1960s, 70s and 80s were constructed using methods that have subsequently proven to work less well, especially for homes with basements or uninsulated concrete slabs on the ground. The fact that the oil boilers of the time have now in most cases been replaced by district heating or heat pumps also means that there is no longer any warm brickwork that drives moisture out and boosts the self-draft.

The absence of insulation of the ground slab provides a natural movement of moisture, while in many cases it was chosen to put wooden joists directly onto the damp concrete to create a flat surface for the floor. The joists rot over time and the damp environment causes mould and other organisms to thrive, creating musty odours and an unhealthy space. Radon in soil is another problem that many houses still suffer from, despite major remediation efforts in recent decades.

Since problems often arise gradually, many people get used to the smells and don’t think much about it – not until it’s time to create an extra study, bedroom or hobby room in the basement, and above all when it comes to sales. An inspection inevitably reveals moisture-related problems and gives the buyer the upper hand in a price negotiation.

Solve moisture-related problems with raised ventilation floors from SubFloor.

The solution is simple and easy, raised ventilation floors from SubFloor. We start by removing the existing rotted joists – nothing more is necessary, as our screw assembly system means that height differences of the substrate do not matter. The result is a completely level floor, with a ventilating air gap underneath. A fan creates negative pressure in the now drying space which ventilates away any possible radon or odours. If the house only has self-draft ventilation – which was common in the years in question – the airflow through the whole house will also be better.

The energy-efficient fan – with power requirements like a small lamp – contributes to a significantly more pleasant and healthier indoor climate. The heat that is vented out can be less than a third compared to the losses in a modern house with mechanical ventilation. Without floor ventilation, problems will reoccur – the only question is how soon.

The floor height using SubFloor can be as low as 15 millimetres without compromising on drying ability – it is often less than the original build height. For example, with different length adjustment screws, the same floor height in an entire basement can be achieved, even when the foundation is cast at different levels. The maximum construction height is 414 mm. The air gap formed can be used not only for ventilation but also for electrical and plumbing installations that will be easy to access in the future.