Sulphate attack and testing...

[Bazooka Boo]

Hi,

A house I'm in the process of purchasing has some issues, mainly bowed kitchen floor, a structural engineer has recommended that the soil and concrete are tested for sulphate, and then replacement of the floor.

 

Firstly, who the hell do I ask to test for sulphates?? Is there a specific ''sulphate testing'' company?

 

And secondly is it better/cheaper to have a suspended floor put in or simply pour in concrete, I only need the house to last for the next 60 years.
 

Thank you!

 

 

[Andyorch]

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/429208/sulphate_damage_research_report.pdf

[Ethel Street]

Perhaps the structural engineer could gives you names of some companies that could quote you for sulphate testing? Must be pretty specialist work and I'd expect a structural engineer to know which companies could do it. 

 

I'd also ask the engineer what they thought about the suspended floor -vs- concrete question too. Even if they wouldn't give you a formal written opinion the engineer may give you some informal ideas on the pros and cons. Worth a call to ask them.

[Bazooka Boo]

Thank you!

 

I managed to source a company that will test the concrete and soil, and it wasn't as much as the engineer first suggested, a mere snip at £400!

 

Regarding the floor options, that will be up to the vendor as the bank won't lend until the work is carried out.