Building defects database - Plant growth

Record details

	(a) Shoots of bamboo sprouting through an asphalt upstand. The full extent of the problem could only be assessed after exposure works, see image (b) below.
	(b) Bamboo roots had first penetrated the asphalt then spread through the expanded clay screed and exited out through the skirtings. On examination, the roots had spread through the screed to affect nearly the whole roof. The black 'pebbles' that are visible are the insulating screed, exposed after removal of the asphalt.