Many traditional properties are built with a suspended wooden floor which sits above a void air space between the perimeter walls and ground.
If this space is not ventilated, the air in it becomes stagnant and humid, and the moisture within it begins to condense on the brickwork and flooring. Over a prolonged period, this moisture causes the floor to rot from the underside.
To avoid this situation airbricks must be positioned in the wall such that air can exchange freely between the sub-floor void and the outside. The airbrick should be inserted into the exterior leaf of the wall and cut through the interior leaf of the wall as well, incorporating a through wall cavity sleeve and thereby maintain the through flow of air to the sub-floor void.
Sub floor ventilation refers to the movement of fresh air through the space beneath a suspended timber floor. This airflow prevents moisture from building up under the floor, which protects the structure from damp, mould and timber decay.
Without proper ventilation, moisture can accumulate under your floors and cause mould growth, musty smells and long term structural damage. Installing effective sub floor ventilation keeps the area dry and helps maintain a healthy home environment.
Common warning signs include musty odours, cold or spongy floorboards, visible mould, condensation around skirting boards and signs of wood rot. If you notice any of these issues, a professional inspection is recommended.
Blocked air bricks, high ground levels, poor drainage, debris under the floor and older building designs can all restrict airflow under a property. Homes in coastal areas like Poole or Bournemouth are also more prone to moisture build up.
Solutions include passive ventilation through air bricks, mechanical ventilation units, ducting systems and moisture control fans. The right option depends on the property layout and the severity of the damp issues.
Modern mechanical ventilation units are designed to operate quietly. Once installed, most systems produce minimal noise that is not noticeable inside the home.
Yes. By lowering humidity and improving airflow, sub floor ventilation helps prevent mould growth and musty smells. It also supports better indoor air quality.
Yes. We provide professional sub floor ventilation services across Bournemouth, Poole, Christchurch and the wider Dorset region.