Gaps between Stramit board and oak frame

[John_1919]

I have one section of external wall which is old oak frame infilled [probably about 40 years ago] with plastic membrane & Stramit board which has been rendered and then painted . However there are now gaps between this infill and the oak frame which let in moisture etc. The surface of the oak has deteriorated, but the core of these timbers is still very sound.


Is it advisable to fill these gaps and if so what with ?
Or should I just leave it to breathe ... even more than when it was originally constructed ?

 

[conny]

That oak frame looks as though it has been riddled with woodworm. If it is, (or has been in the past), then I would seriously doubt the inner core would still be sound. I would get an expert to check the structural soundness of them, especially if they are supporting beams. May save a lot of heartache in the future.

 

[^woody^]

Traditionally, these would be filled with Oakum caulk, and then lime render

 

[John_1919]

That oak frame looks as though it has been riddled with woodworm. If it is, (or has been in the past), then I would seriously doubt the inner core would still be sound. I would get an expert to check the structural soundness of them, especially if they are supporting beams. May save a lot of heartache in the future.

Fortunately it is only the outer sap wood which was affected, the inner heartwood [i.e. most of the thickness] of these timbers is very hard and solid - but your point is a very valid one -thanks for the reply

 

[John_1919]

Traditionally, these would be filled with Oakum caulk, and then lime render

.... which would be breathable ....

So what would be an appropriate modern alternative ?

 

[^woody^]

The traditional way is the way.