Identifying the below-decks void as the likely source of flies has meant a lot of work in removing the deck boards, reversing them and in places raising them to create easier access to keep the below-decks areas clean of rotting debris, power washing, Rentokil treatments and long term access to keeps them fly-free. Well under way. This is the north west corner which will be raised to create a deeper, accessible, void. The fibreglass roof below is in excellent condition. Twelve years on from the decks construction it and its supports are in excellent condition. The support legs are of pressure treated timber and each rests on a galvanised steel spreader plate. For good measure the base of each leg was soaked overnight in creosote before installation. This has resulted in no rot whatever despite the often wet environment down there.
As originally constructed, the entire weight of the deck and whatever is on the deck is borne by the fibreglass roof below. This load has been reduced by the use of joist hangers, firmly fixed to the tank itself. Extra joists have also been provided. The raised access is only at the north and south ends of the decking where large areas require maintenance access. Other areas of the deck remain at their original levels. Along the narrow eastern side of the roof room there is no decking, enabling total open-air access. Along the wider western walkway, the four central decking board have been lifted, turned and replaced with stainless steel screws to enable occasional access if ever needed.
And now,
Reference Number: 4400112
