by Mark Mason | Mar 9, 2018 | Architectural, Maintenance, Residential
Recently, I purchased part of an old pub, which dates from the late 18th Century. The property is in a dilapidated state and in need of many repairs, which include a complete new heating system, electrics, and addressing damp issues and cracks in the building. Before...
by William Grumitt | Jan 4, 2018 | Maintenance, Professional Services, Survey & Valuation
We recently inspected the flat roof of a large, 1950s, residential block of flats. Residents of the flats complained that the paint on their ceilings was flaking and dampness had started to appear. A quick inspection and the problem was clear. The contractors who...
by William Grumitt | Oct 19, 2017 | Maintenance
Cold bridging problems Cold bridging is a big problem for blocks of flats built after the second world war. It happens when the insulation surrounding a flat or house is ‘bridged’, creating a cold spot upon which condensation can settle. In concrete...
by Michael Barker | Oct 27, 2016 | Maintenance, Residential, Survey & Valuation
The cold nights are drawing in, you’re about to dust off the winter coat, and that black mould has started to appear in the same spot again! Black mould is linked to condensation, which is common in 1960s purpose-built blocks. Why? The answer is usually cold...
by Michael Barker | Nov 17, 2015 | Maintenance
Cracks are scary, there is no denying it, but as a chartered surveyor, I know a crack isn’t always a reason to panic. We’re starting this series with pre-cast concrete cracks but I’ll be looking at the different types of cracks you might come across, how...
by William Grumitt | Sep 8, 2015 | Maintenance
Reasons to use Redland 49 tiles There is no doubt about it, Redland 49 tiles are not attractive. However, they are used widely as they are cheap to install. The tiles interlock, which means they are easily secured provide good protection from the rain are extremely...