Description of Delignification

For purchasers of older homes, typically around areas of either high salt air areas or high industrial fallout areas (eg. motor vehicle gases) this post is a MUST READ!

Delignification or Defibration or it can also be known as Chemical Delignification damage, is most commonly found, but not limited to timber used as roof tile battens of buildings that are located in close proximity to the sea, large chemical factories or major roads. The term describes deterioration in which the lignin in timber is damaged by airborne chemicals. Lignin is the natural glue that holds the fibres of wood together. When the lignin is broken down or damaged the fibres then detach from each other creating a visible hairy surface, the delignification progresses causes the timber section to become weakened. Chemical Delignification is regarded as a structural pest of timber in service.

Chemical delignification generally will not occur to timbers in service that are sealed, painted or well oiled as the lignin is protected. In advanced cases of chemical delignification then replacement of the timbers is needed. The cost of repair of the chemical delignification damage would need to be taken into account upon inspection.

Chemical Delignification may only occur after timbers have been exposed to airborne substances for a relatively long period of time. Upon reading an Inspection Report which contains evidence of delignification, apart from the costs involved, also consider the possibility that the air quality in the proposed area may be affected by chemicals. Health hazards may be present that could cause long term damage to a resident’s health.

We hope this has given you a better understanding of this defect, as always you can call or email us to obtain further information.