Red LBP Building Inspections - Franklin

🌿 Plants and cladding don’t always make good neighbours.

Many modern cladding systems rely on ventilation openings at the base of the wall to allow air to circulate and moisture to escape.

When plants, garden beds, mulch, or soil cover these openings, airflow can be restricted and moisture can become trapped. 💧
Over time, this can create damp conditions and increase the risk of deterioration around the base of the wall.

Keeping vegetation trimmed back and maintaining good clearances helps the cladding system perform the way it was designed to. ✅

For clear, practical advice, contact your local, experienced building inspector — Nick Cory, Red LBP Franklin.

📞 027 221 5210�📧 [email protected]�🌐 https://www.redlbp.co.nz/pre-purchase-house-inspection-franklin/

💧 Ground clearances matter more than many homeowners realise.

When cladding sits too close to the ground, moisture can remain trapped around the base of the wall, creating ideal conditions for mould and deterioration over time.

Common causes include:
🌱 Soil or garden beds built up against the house
🌿 Plants growing against cladding
💧 Poor drainage and constant dampness

As a general guide, cladding should sit approximately:
✅ 100mm above paved surfaces
✅ 175mm above soil, grass, mulch, or bark

Maintaining these clearances helps the cladding dry properly and reduces the risk of moisture-related issues.

For clear, practical advice, contact your local, experienced building inspector — Nick Cory, Red LBP Franklin.

📞 027 221 5210
📧 [email protected]
🌐 https://www.redlbp.co.nz/pre-purchase-house-inspection-franklin/

💧 A damp home can affect more than just the building itself.

Excess moisture can contribute to mould growth and may impact indoor air quality, especially for people with asthma or allergies.

Damp air also tends to feel colder, which often means heaters work harder and energy costs increase 🔥💰

Keeping moisture levels under control can help create a home that feels healthier, warmer, and more comfortable year-round. ✅

For clear, practical advice, contact your local, experienced building inspector — Nick Cory, Red LBP Franklin.

📞 027 221 5210
📧 [email protected]
🌐 https://www.redlbp.co.nz/pre-purchase-house-inspection-franklin/