At Rochester Building and Damp, we pride ourselves on adhering to the Gaines Methodology, a time-honoured approach to timber and damp treatment that guarantees long-lasting results. As a cornerstone of our business, we offer expert assessments and solutions based on these meticulous principles, ensuring your property remains protected from the dangers of damp and decay.
What is the Gaines Methodology?
The Gaines Methodology is a rigid set of principles created by the late Bernard Gaines, a local pioneer in the damp industry whose influence still resonates today. Bernard Gaines’ methods emphasise the connection between a property’s landscape, its era of construction, and the precise requirements for both remedial and preventative treatment of damp. His ground-breaking approach was ahead of its time and continues to be the foundation of modern damp-proofing techniques.
Gaines was not only an expert in timber and damp treatment but also an advocate for better health and safety standards. His early involvement in legislative reforms during the 1980s helped shape how the industry addresses issues of ingress, mould, and mildew, particularly in council housing.
The Property Dampcourse Association (PDA®) and Gaines Methodology Lore
The Gaines Methodology is more than a set of guidelines—it is at the heart of the Property Dampcourse Association (PDA®), an authoritative body in the field of damp treatment. Every year, the PDA® Guidelines are updated to reflect advancements in technology, product development, and shifts in building regulations or government legislation, all while staying rooted in the original principles established by Gaines. Rochester Building and Damp operates in strict compliance with these updated guidelines, ensuring that every project we undertake reflects the latest best practices in the industry.
How Rochester Building and Damp Operates
At Rochester Building and Damp, we implement the Gaines Methodology by:
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Comprehensive Property Assessment: Every project begins with a thorough assessment of the property, taking into account factors such as terrain, construction era, and potential environmental impacts. This allows us to diagnose current problems and predict future risks accurately.
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Tailored Treatment Plans: Using the insights gained from our assessment, we create a bespoke treatment plan that addresses your property’s specific needs. Our solutions not only remedy existing issues but also prevent future occurrences of timber decay or damp.
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Use of Cutting-Edge Technology: While rooted in the principles of the Gaines Methodology, we incorporate the latest technological advances in timber and damp treatment to ensure the highest level of protection for your property.
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Sustainability and Safety: We prioritize eco-friendly methods and ensure all work complies with the latest health and safety standards. Bernard Gaines was one of the first to campaign for the recognition of health risks related to damp exposure, a legacy we continue by providing safe, long-lasting solutions.
Bernard Gaines: A Forgotten Pioneer
Though not widely remembered today, Bernard Gaines was a key figure in the damp-proofing industry. His 1983 book, “The Truth About Damp”, shook the industry by exposing unethical practices within some major companies of the time. While the book was controversial and quickly pulled from shelves, Gaines’ methods remained influential.
His work laid the groundwork for many of the legislative changes in damp and mould treatment that exist today, and his legacy lives on through the Gaines Methodology. Rochester Building and Damp is proud to follow in his footsteps, adhering to the ethical standards and forward-thinking approach that Bernard Gaines championed.
Contact Us
If you suspect damp issues in your property, don’t wait until it’s too late. Let Rochester Building and Damp safeguard your home or business using the trusted techniques and principles based on many decades of experience. Get in touch with us today for a consultation and let us provide a tailored solution that stands the test of time.
