A local homeowner asked JJ Group to investigate progressive timber decay across several elevations. Following a detailed survey, we proposed a programme that prioritised repair over replacement, controlled cost, and restored the building envelope. This case study sets out how our rot repair and replacement approach delivered a durable, tidy finish with minimal disruption.
Our Objectives for this Project
Our inspection confirmed failed coatings, decayed soffits and fascias, degraded weatherboards, and compromised battens and membranes, especially around window junctions and the chimney. The plan combined spliced repairs with targeted renewals to regain integrity while preserving sound fabric. The guiding principle was rot repair and replacement carried out only where necessary, with ventilation reinstated at eaves and soffits and all exposed new timber factory primed to support long service life.
Beginning Work
We removed the existing fascias and fitted new hardwood ones that had been factory primed for even coating. All rotten soffit sections were cut out and replaced with primed ply boards to stabilise the eaves. The entire run of weatherboarding was stripped and renewed with standard 150 mm treated boards, factory primed on both faces, then we removed the failed battens and membrane. To complete the build-up, we supplied and installed the tilt fillet, a breathable membrane, and treated battens so water is shed cleanly and the wall can dry as designed.
Both windows required fresh surrounds, so we fabricated new hardwood sections and installed them after factory priming. We removed the tired battens and membrane and introduced a continuous soffit vent to maintain airflow in the roof void and lower the risk of condensation.
The Chimney
The return needed structural attention, so we renewed the complete corner post with a factory-primed hardwood post and re-boarded the area with standard 150 mm treated boards, primed both sides. The membrane and battens were stripped out and, in agreement with the client and design intent, the wall was finished as painted brick where appropriate to simplify future maintenance.
On both left and right sections we replaced the two barge boards with new hardwood, factory primed for a clean paint finish. The soffits were repaired locally to retain good material and avoid unnecessary waste. All weatherboards were stripped and replaced with treated, factory-primed boards, while selected areas had the membrane and battens removed to return to painted brick by design. We then supplied and installed new inner and outer roof rafters to each side of the chimney, rebuilt the lower box sections, and fitted complete new soffits for a crisp, robust junction.
Front Repairs
Here we focused on careful repair. The fascias were consolidated with hardwood sections and primed in the workshop. We also manufactured new hardwood trims for the central window, again factory primed, and we replaced three weatherboards to bring lines back to true and protect vulnerable edges.
Side Repairs
At the front section of this elevation we replaced two barge boards with new factory-primed hardwood, then fitted new outer roof rafters to both sides of the chimney. The soffits on each side were renewed and the front fascia was repaired to close up gaps and improve the overall weathering performance.
Over the Kitchen
This area received the most comprehensive rot repair and replacement. We stripped the existing weatherboards and fitted five new boards, installed new hardwood corner posts, and membraned and battened the corner and return to reinstate a breathable cavity. The elevation was fully re-boarded, integrating any salvageable boards for a responsible outcome. The left-hand fascia was replaced in hardwood and factory primed, selected fascia support timbers were renewed in treated timber, and the complete soffit was replaced along with new hardwood trims and returns to the kitchen window, all factory primed. We renewed three weatherboards around the window, then stripped and replaced the boards to the left and seven boards above to achieve a continuous, tidy finish.
Over the Sunroom
We replaced surrounds and return timbers to the first-floor windows using factory-primed hardwood, then carried out localised barge board repairs with new hardwood sections. This preserved original fabric and kept costs proportionate without compromising durability.
Method, Materials, and Sequencing
Hardwood joinery was specified for fascias, barge boards, trims, surrounds, and corner posts because it offers stability and long service life when correctly detailed. Standard 150 mm treated weatherboards were used throughout, factory primed on both faces to reduce moisture uptake and to provide a dependable base for finishing coats. Breathable membranes and treated battens were installed with correct laps and tilt fillets so rain is directed away from vulnerable edges. Where required, continuous soffit ventilation was introduced to maintain a dry roof void. Sequencing was planned bit by bit to keep the property liveable, protect openings, and maintain a tidy site at all times. This careful approach to rot repair and replacement helps prevent repeat failures and sets a clear path for maintenance.
Results and Aftercare
The property now has a sound, weatherproof exterior with crisp lines and reliable ventilation. Tighter junctions and renewed soffits reduce draughts and heat loss, while factory priming provides a consistent base for finishing coats and easier upkeep. We advise applying the finishing system within the recommended window for factory-primed timber, inspecting eaves and lower boards annually, keeping gutters clear, and contacting JJ Group promptly if impact damage or localised peeling appears so minor issues do not progress into new rot.
Why JJ Group
Clients choose JJ Group for a repair-first mindset, direct contact throughout, in-house joinery and spray booth, and tidy, considerate working. Our detail-led method protects existing building fabric, controls programme length, and delivers workmanship that stands up to the weather.
Thinking About Similar Work?
If you are seeing soft timber, flaking paint that never seems to last, or gaps around fascias, soffits, and weatherboards, we can visit, survey your property, and provide a clear proposal for rot repair and replacement that sets out what to repair and what to renew. Contact us today to arrange an inspection and estimate for your home.
