Hi Sarah I absolutely think what you have suggested is perfect. I love Paperbark for the mouldings and the double strength for render. The brick you chose is awesome. I think you've got it sorted. How exciting! All the best. Regards Lisa PS. I love the elevation.

Hi Anne Marie, there are a few things that could be causing the black staining. Share it could be mould but that usually takes some time but usually moist and dark conditions too. If your timber has been exposed to the elements before it has been coated it may be the woods natural tannins coming out. This is normal for most decking timbers. If it is mould there are several outdoor mould sprays available. These are generally a chlorine based product and although it will kill the mould it may also bleach the timber. I suggest a test patch that is not in open view or on an off cut if you still have one. If it is the tannins coming out then you could use one of the available deck cleaners as per the instructions however you need to get the timber coated as soon as possible to make sure that you keep the awesome colour that blackbutt has. Have a look at my pics to see the blackbutt deck done for one of my clients. Good luck.

Ok, we had a place we were in process of buying fill with black Mould from floor to ceiling due to place flooding whilst closed up in summer. Some serious running water. Old owner painted over it but we had seen it first luckily. We Brought in specialists. Tested through the roof. All effected rooms gutted by mould removal specialist to contain mould spores and timbers behind walls sanded. Top 2 inches of soil under house removed. Ceilings were ok it stopped at cornice. Renovated place, ran air purifier for two days then had air testing done and all clear. No issues in two years since. Luckily this was identified before settlement and through negotiation with owner and our insurer we ended up ahead and with new kitchen etc. the wet conditions had swelled all doors and seized stove. Get in a qualified air tester. They will be able to tell if mould is still coming through. Mould is insidious, if you smell it it’s there and could affect your health. Good luck

It wouldn’t put me off if the price was right but you need to decide what is right for you. A mould treatment service probably isn’t what you’re after. You need to see what is under the surfaces. The plaster needs to be pulled off the walls that are effected. Plaster is cheap. The carpet needs to pulled up. Carpet can be relayed but unless you’re sure it’s totally mould free it will need to be replaced in that room. Carpet prices vary. The skirtings will need to be replaced. This isn’t expensive either. The wooden frame behind the plaster may only have a small section of damage but you won’t know. Overall it’s not hard but it is a lot of diy or trade coordination. And yes if you have another bathroom you can live there while the work was done. But I’d definitely remove all the damaged surfaces and materials and clean before moving in.